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East Leyden teacher earns national recognition

Brian Burcham in front of classroom
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Project Lead the Way (PLTW) recognizes East Leyden teacher Brian Burcham as a 2024-25 Outstanding PLTW Teacher. Burcham is one of 103 teachers honored, across the U.S. Every day, PLTW teachers rise to the occasion, actively engage and support their students, colleagues, and communities. 

“Working next to Brian for these past couple of years has opened my eyes to how much he cares about the students and how he is always trying to learn new things to implement with his students,” said fellow teacher Brad Henning, who nominated Burcham for this honor. “This year has been no different, as he is bringing his students together to design, manufacture and wire electric guitars!”

Burcham teaches a variety of engineering classes including Introduction to Engineering Design, Principles of Engineering, Digital Electronics, Aerospace and the culminating course called Capstone, or “Engineering Design and Development.” He also sponsors the Engineering Club, and meets with students regularly after school to give them the space for their creative endeavors.

“Mr. Burcham is what I would call my favorite teacher, but that is an understatement,” said recent graduate Russell Klug. “He is someone I admire and look up to, one of those teachers who inspires you to do something great, and for me, he has allowed me to reach my most desired dreams and ambitions.”

Burcham has conducted independent research, worked with a solar company, and Fermilab, America’s particle physics and accelerator laboratory. He toured CERN in Switzerland to see the results of work he did at Fermilab.

“Brian is one of those teachers who seems to always be here in the building before school and after school,” said Superintendent Dr. Nick Polyak. “He is always helping his students explore the world of Engineering - and, even spends his personal time and summers seeking more knowledge and opportunities.”

Each year PLTW honors outstanding teachers and administrators from across the network who play an immeasurable role in preparing students to thrive in college, future careers, and beyond. Learn more about the PLTW National Awards at www.pltw.org.

“I'm honored to receive the PLTW Outstanding Teacher Award and proud to be part of a program that empowers students with real-world engineering challenges,” said Burcham. “I enjoy equipping students with the knowledge and tools to solve problems and encouraging collaboration across disciplines. Teaching engineering involves empowering creative, resilient thinkers ready for the professional world.”