Each year, the National Association of Biology Teachers (NABT), with the assistance of generous sponsors, provides a number of awards to biology and life science teachers. The various awards recognize expertise, unique contributions, and outstanding leadership in teaching life sciences. This year, Dr. Joanne Jezequel from Kennesaw Mountain High School (KMHS) was recognized with the Kim Foglia AP Biology Service Award.
"The best part about teaching at KMHS is interacting with the students, and the freedom to be creative in my teaching approach in a manner that can spark curiosity," Dr. Jezequel said. "Being part of a school community that supports innovation and values strong relationships makes working at The Mountain especially fulfilling."
The NABT sponsors the Kim Foglia Award and recognizes "an AP Biology teacher who displays a willingness to share materials, serves as a mentor to both students and professional colleagues, creates an innovative and student-centered classroom environment, and exemplifies a personal philosophy that encourages professional growth as an AP biology teacher and member of that community."
The NABT was particularly impressed with Dr. Jezequel's innovative design and implementation of her "Triple Play" curriculum. This class, conceived and created by Dr. Jezequel, integrates Honors Anatomy and Physiology, AP Biology, and Post-AP Advanced DNA/Genetics into a cohesive, interdisciplinary experience. Taylar Wharton, a 2025 KMHS grad, took three classes from Dr. Jezequel—Honors Biology, AP Psychology, and Triple Play—and nominated her for the award.
Triple Play incorporates frequent hands-on activities and lab experiences, promoting academic rigor and real-world relevance. Through this course, students can earn multiple college biology lecture and lab credits by achieving a qualifying score on the College Board’s AP Biology exam.
"This recognition serves as meaningful validation of the course I designed to actively engage students in the life sciences," Dr. Jezequel said. "Triple Play was developed to encourage students to deepen their understanding of the interdependence among living systems and the environment, while also fostering critical thinking and enabling students to strengthen their scientific literacy. I would like to thank both Principal Nathan Stark and Magnet Coordinator Angie Wood for their continued support!"
Principal Stark had nothing but good things to say about his award-winning AP Biology teacher.
"Dr. J is beloved by so many students and works extremely hard to help them be successful in AP classes, both AP Biology and AP Psychology," he said with a smile. "This award is a testament to her dedication to student success in AP Biology and her creativity in developing and implementing our Triple Play class. We are so proud of her for this recognition!"
