Legacy High School Biology Teacher Josh Nielsen Wins Prestigious Science Award
Wichita Falls, Texas – Legacy High School’s Josh Nielsen, a long-time biology teacher in the Wichita Falls Independent School District (WFISD), has been honored with the Roberta Faulkner Sund Award, recognizing his outstanding dedication to science education and his students.
This special award is given each year to one exceptional science teacher in the district and includes a $1,000 prize. It was established by Dr. Harold Sund in memory of his late wife, Roberta Faulkner, who taught chemistry from 1968 to 1992 and was known for her passion for teaching and science.
A Surprise Classroom Visit and a Big Honor
Nielsen was completely surprised when the award was presented to him in front of his class.
The moment turned into a celebration of his years of hard work and passion for science education.
25 Years of Inspiring Students Through Science
Josh Nielsen has been teaching science at WFISD for 25 years and is known for his engaging approach to teaching biology—a subject many students take as a requirement, not always by choice.
His students often leave his class with not just knowledge, but a new appreciation for science.
Honoring a Legacy of Science Teaching
The Roberta Faulkner Sund Award was created to keep alive the memory of a woman who dedicated decades to teaching science in the same district. Her legacy continues through this award, given to educators like Nielsen who are making a lasting impact in their classrooms.
Josh Nielsen’s unexpected recognition is a testament to his passion, energy, and influence as a teacher in the Wichita Falls community. For over two decades, he has turned a required biology class into an experience students can enjoy—and maybe even love. Awards like the Roberta Faulkner Sund honor the educators who go beyond the textbook to truly connect with students and spark curiosity in the world around them.