The University of Texas at Austin has named Dr. Norman LaFave as one of its ten annual winners of the Texas Exes Award for Outstanding Teachers. This recognition is given by the College of Education in conjunction with the Texas Exes Association. These awards have been given to over 250 outstanding Texas teachers.

Dr. LaFave will receive a cash award, a specially commissioned bronze sculpture, participation in an all-expenses paid conference in Austin, and recognition at a dinner hosted by the president of the University of Texas.

All Klein Forest students enrolled in Dr. LaFave’s classes gathered for the surprise ceremony where Klein Forest principal Mr. Bill Lakin announced that Dr. LaFave had received the award. Additionally, his wife Shannon, his mother-in-law Marilyn Brown, his daughter Jillian, and his son Brock were also in attendance.

Members of the Klein Forest staff prepared the nomination packet that included a letter from principal Mr. Bill Lakin, Klein Forest parents, and former chemistry and physics students of Dr. LaFave. Former student Riley Walls who graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy noted, “He treated each student as if we were his own and frequently went above and beyond to give us the encouragement we needed to get the job done. I can always count on Dr. LaFave to cheer me on in all my endeavors whether they are personal or professional.”

Riley’s father Tom Walls wrote, “Dr. LaFave’s background in aerospace engineering, especially his experiences with the space program at NASA, speaks volumes regarding his knowledge and expertise. However, it is his patience, caring and dedication that show through in the classroom to provide a positive influence in each and every young man and woman that is fortunate enough to have him as a teacher.”

Dr. LaFave earned a B.S. in physics and mathematics at Carnegie Mellon University. He earned a PhD at the University of Texas in physics. He was named a Claes Nobel Educator of Distinction by the National Society of High School Scholars.

Dr. LaFave was drawn to teaching when he taught at the university level. After working for NASA and as a consultant, he chose to teach in public school. He stated, “I do not believe that science and math have to be dry.” His students would agree that he has attained that teaching goal.

Marek Molcek, a Klein Forest student, stated, “Dr. LaFave makes class fun. He studies his students to determine how he should teach them, what their needs are.”

Student Nurysamin Yusri noted, “Students know they can talk to Dr. LaFave. He takes time to help students.”

Maritza Avelar likes the way Dr. LaFave “takes time to make sure students understand what he is teaching. He makes students want to learn.”

Christian Sanchez, another student, likes the way Dr. LaFave “teaches skills that become useful in other classes. “