With more than two decades inspiring young people to discover science through nature, the teacher Janelise Aldea Delgado was selected by the Caribbean Division of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS Caribbean Division) to receive the Lucy Gaspar Award for Excellence in Science Education 2025in recognition of his career, commitment and creativity in teaching.
Since 2008, Aldea Delgado has led the project Green Alliance Butterfly Housea pioneering educational space in the Puerto Rico public schools where students research, protect and raise butterflies in a zoo. The project has become a model of educational innovation and experiential learning for more than 16 years, fostering environmental awareness and passion for science in hundreds of young people.
A native of Caguas and a teacher in Clara Maldonado Second Unit School of Aramburu in ReedsAldea Delgado expressed, in a press release, that “Receiving this award is an honor that recognizes not only my career, but also the work of my students, colleagues and the community that has supported the creation and growth of the butterfly farm”.
For more than 25 years in the public education system, the teacher has distinguished herself by integrating research, environmental conservation and the active participation of students in scientific projects.
“I will continue to dedicate myself to scientific and environmental education with the conviction that teaching is the most powerful tool to build a sustainable and conscious future,” added the also graduate of the Department of Education of the University of Puerto Rico (UPR) in Humacao.
In 2008, Aldea Delgado became certified in lepidopterology at the INBio University of Costa Ricabecoming the first teacher in the public system to achieve this specialization. Its commitment has transcended borders, being recognized with the Amgen Award for Science Teaching Excellenceinternational research scholarships and the admiration of his colleagues and students.
The president of the AAAS Caribbean Division, Dr. Kevin M. Alicea Torreshighlighted that recognizing Aldea Delgado on the organization’s 40th anniversary “reaffirms our mission to highlight the essential role of educators who inspire scientific curiosity and commitment to the environment from the classroom”.
“Her career embodies the spirit of the Lucy Gaspar Prize and the transformative power of science when taught with passion, purpose and empathy,” added Alicea Torres, who is also a professor at the UPR in Humacao.
The Lucy Gaspar Award for Excellence in Science Education honors the legacy of the outstanding educator and scientific leader Lucy Gasparand celebrates K-12 teachers from Caribbean that promote curiosity, critical thinking and the connection between science and community.
Aldea Delgado will be officially recognized during the 40th Annual AAAS Caribbean Division Conventionto be held on October 24 and 25 at the Humacao Fine Arts Center.