'Remove Barriers And Elevate Student Voice': HFHS Science Teacher Among 100 Selected For Advocate Program

FLOSSMOOR, IL — A Homewood-Flossmoor High School science teacher has been tapped for a prestigious program recognizing outstanding educators.

Corinne Zimmerman is among 100 selected for Society for Science’s 2026–2027 Advocate Program, a national initiative that supports educators mentoring students as they conduct original scientific research and participate in science competitions.

Through professional development, stipends and year-round support, the program empowers educators to help students pursue original research opportunities & participate in science competitions, helping them build confidence, strengthen critical thinking skills and discover new pathways into science and engineering.

Zimmerman will receive a $3,000 stipend, part of the program’s $326,000 total investment.

Zimmerman teaches Biology and Honors Anatomy & Physiology at the suburban high school, the organization said. She is passionate about designing "engaging, real-world learning experiences that help students make connections across body systems, genetics, and evolution."

Zimmerman integrates hands-on labs, data analysis, and literacy-focused strategies to support all learners in developing scientific thinking skills. She is actively involved in curriculum development, student outreach, and interdisciplinary collaboration, including partnerships with medical and STEM professionals.

"I am honored and excited to be selected as an Advocate because it affirms my commitment to creating equitable, inclusive science experiences where all students can see themselves as capable learners," Zimmerman said. "This opportunity will allow me to expand access to high-quality resources and instructional strategies that remove barriers and elevate student voice, ensuring every learner has the support they need to succeed."

This year, the Society is awarding a total of $326,000, with 13 Lead Advocates receiving $5,000 each and 87 Advocates receiving $3,000 each. Throughout the year, the Lead Advocates will mentor fellow educators in region-specific, peer-led cohorts, supporting the 66 new Advocates and 21 returning Advocates. Together, they form a nationwide network of teacher leaders committed to expanding STEM opportunities for students.

"The most powerful way to expand opportunity for young people is to invest in the educators who recognize their potential and help turn their curiosity into discovery," said Maya Ajmera, President and CEO of Society for Science and Executive Publisher of Science News. "Congratulations to our 2026–2027 Advocates. Together, they will strengthen STEM education, share innovative approaches and open doors for more students to see themselves—and thrive—as the scientists, engineers and innovators of tomorrow."

The Advocate Program recognizes the essential role educators play in helping students move from pursuing independent research to sharing their work in competitions, including the Regeneron Science Talent Search, the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair and the Thermo Fisher Scientific Junior Innovators Challenge. Advocates guide students through the process, helping them identify appropriate competitions, navigate application requirements, meet important deadlines and communicate their research effectively. Along the way, students strengthen their scientific reasoning, communication and problem-solving skills while gaining valuable experience that can open doors to future educational and career opportunities inside and outside the STEM pipeline.

Since its launch, the Advocate Program has supported 439 educators. Together, these educators have supported more than 9,100 students, including more than 6,700 who have submitted over 12,000 entries to STEM competitions. Many students participate in multiple competitions, reflecting the sustained engagement and growing impact of the Advocate Program.

This year's cohort brings together educators from public, charter and private schools, and one university. They bring diverse perspectives and expertise from classrooms, museums, after-school programs and community organizations, enriching the Advocate Program cohort with a wide range of experiences and approaches. Over the coming year, they will build lasting professional relationships, exchange innovative ideas and integrate new strategies to inspire and support the students they serve.

Earlier this summer, the new cohort gathered in Washington, D.C., for the Society's annual Advocate Training Institute, an immersive professional development experience designed to prepare educators for the year ahead. Through hands-on workshops and interactive sessions, participants explored topics ranging from accessible astronomy research using NASA archival data to building community partnerships that expand research opportunities for students exploring ways to connect students with competitions such as the Thermo Fisher Scientific Junior Innovators Challenge. The institute also gave educators practical strategies, resources and inspiration they can bring back to their schools and communities throughout the year.

The 2026–2027 Advocate Program is made possible through the generous support of the Arconic Foundation, DoW STEM through the Defense STEM Education Consortium (DSEC), and Regeneron.