Indy Standard

Mouhamed Mboup, a biology teacher at Arsenal Technical High School, has been recognized as one of the top educators in the nation by receiving the 2024 Betty Van Andel (VAL) Teachers of Excellence award. He is among ten educators across the country to be honored with this prestigious award.

The Betty Van Andel Teachers of Excellence award acknowledges outstanding educators who have collaborated with VAL to create classrooms that encourage curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking. The Van Andel Institute, located in Grand Rapids, Michigan, is a biomedical research and education organization that works with educators worldwide to advance these educational principles.

Mboup expressed his gratitude for receiving the award: “I am deeply honored to accept the Betty Van Andel Teacher of Excellence Award,” he said. “This recognition constitutes an important milestone in my educational journey and demonstrates the passion and dedication I have devoted to my work as a teacher.”

The mission of the Van Andel Institute for Education is focused on building classrooms where curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking thrive. Each year, they honor teachers who exemplify this mission through their work with the institute.

Mary Catherine Dillon, K-12 senior science coordinator for Indianapolis Public Schools, praised Mboup's innovative teaching methods: “Mr. Mboup is always trying new things in his classroom,” she stated. “He tries his best to get students excited about learning science and seeks to improve and reflect upon his practice daily.”

As an Advanced Placement Biology and Biology 1 teacher at Arsenal Technical High School since 2018, Mboup supports fellow educators with his experience in research methodology and commitment to innovative teaching practices. His efforts contribute significantly to fostering an environment of dynamic learning and problem-solving within biology and general science classes.

Mboup began his career with Indianapolis Public Schools in 2006 as a special education assistant before joining Arsenal Tech staff later on.