Heights High math teacher receives regional award

Joyce Bukovac is one of three 2014-15 Greater Cleveland "Outstanding High School Mathematics Teachers."

The Greater Cleveland Council of Teachers of Mathematics selected Heights High math teacher Joyce Bukovac as one of three 2014–15 Outstanding High School Mathematics Teachers.

Bukovac teaches AP statistics and probability, statistics, and modeling. She is also chair of the math department. Fred Thomas, instructional specialist for mathematics, said Bukovac is “totally new school” in her use of technology in the classroom, but appreciates the history of the old-school slide rule. Thomas, who nominated Bukovac for the award, said that this award validates her work in the classroom and with her peers.

“Joyce has a very deep knowledge of the content and is excellent at teaching simple concepts, as well as more advanced topics,” he said. “As the leader of the math department at the high school, she leads by example and collaborates with her colleagues. She knows how to keep students engaged.”

Bukovac has been a math aficionado since childhood and exudes an upbeat and positive attitude, even after teaching math in the Heights for 24 years. “I love my work as math teacher,” she said. “There is nothing like watching a student learn a concept and then see them communicate it to another student.”

While she is grateful for the award, Bukovac acknowledges her peers in her success. “This award represents our entire math department,” she said. “I am thankful for the opportunity to collaborate with such a great team.”

Bukovac received her award at the May 11 Greater Cleveland Council of Teachers of Mathematics Awards and Recognition Dinner at Baldwin Wallace University. The two other teachers honored this year are from Mentor High School and Strongsville High School.