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Mark R. Meola, Applied Technology, Robotics and Engineering teacher at Sparta High School, Sparta, NJ, who resides in Dingmans Ferry, PA, was recently presented with an Air Force Association Chapter 195 Teacher of the Year Award. The award includes an AFA Chapter 195 TOY pin, padfolio, certificate, $500.00, as well as a complimentary Civil Air Patrol(CAP) Aerospace Education Membership which includes a free CAP Cessna orientation flight.

Mark Meola has been teaching STEM education for 23 years and has developed the curriculum for nine STEM courses some of which are within the Sparta High School STEM Academy. He coaches a Robotics Club that has won multiple competitions which led to attending four World Championships. His teams have been ranked in the top 1% globally out of 22,000 middle/high schools from 40 different countries. He has worked with local industry including ThorLabs to elicit support, internships, and networking opportunities.

In addition, he continues to play a critical role in the success of the STEM Academy and inspires many students to pursue careers in STEM fields after graduation. Also, he mentors STEM teachers from surrounding counties in support of STEM education.

The Air Force Association educates the public on the critical role of aerospace power in our nation’s defense and supports the United States Air Force and its auxiliary, the Civil Air Patrol. For more information visit web site at: https://sites.google.com/site/afa195org/ .

The Shooting Star Chapter, 195, of the Air Force Association meets monthly usually on the last Saturday of each month except during the months of June, July, August, November, and December. For information, contact Bill Fosina, 195 President, wmfosina@outlook.com, 908-803-4949.

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