Curiosity and critical-thinking are at the heart of Hannah Ludlage's approach to teaching science at Cold Lake Junior High.
Her passion for inspiring young scientists was recently recognized by the TELUS World of Science, which honoured her with a 2025 Inspiring Educator Award. Ludlage was one of only three educators province-wide to receive the award, which includes a $1,000 classroom grant, and a field trip experience for her students.
"Science has always been a passion of mine, and to be recognized in this way is truly special," said Ludlage. "It encourages me to keep growing and pushing my science program further. It also reminds me how much of an impact teachers can have when we bring excitement and curiosity into our classrooms."
Now in her fourth year of teaching with NLPS, Ludlage credits her own science teacher for inspiring her love of learning through activities like dissections, building projects, and competitions like math and science olympics. She strives to provide her students with similar engaging, hands-on opportunities.
"I feel like you're reaching more students that way, and it also sparks curiosity," she explained. "Whether they see the real-life connections right away or not, it at least gets them excited about learning. When you create opportunities for students to access something, you're creating pathways that otherwise they wouldn't get."
The classroom grant will help expand the school's collection of science equipment, and support hands-on learning opportunities. Ludlage plans to purchase materials such as owl pellets, plant samples, soil kits, and pH testing materials to help students explore ecosystems, chemistry and environmental science. Reusable resources like solar system models, rock and mineral sets, beakers, microscope slides, and hydroponic kits will enhance learning for many years to come.
Digital scales, thermometers, and magnifying lenses are also on Ludlage's list, to improve the accuracy and depth of students' investigations. This is part of her focus on helping students to develop critical thinking skills by learning to research and test things themselves.
"In today's world, where information is everywhere, it's important for students to learn how to question, research, and find evidence-based answers," she explained. "Science also connects to so many aspects of our daily lives, from health to technology to the environment, and I want students to see those connections clearly. My hope is that students leave my class not only with knowledge, but also with curiosity that stays with them throughout their lives."
Hannah Ludlage is the NLPS Staff Shining Star for November. Each month during the 2025-2026 school year, NLPS celebrates staff who go above and beyond to support students, strengthen school communities and make a meaningful impact across our division.
