Odessa, TX — What began as a typical day of teaching turned into an unexpected celebration for Odessa College geology instructor Joshua Hardt.

Hardt was in the middle of teaching one of his high school dual credit classes when his lesson was interrupted by surprise visitors. Representatives from Odessa College and the college’s geology department joined West Texas Geology Foundation (WTGF) board member Emily Emerald to honor Hardt with a $5,000 award and the prestigious Most Outstanding Science Teacher (MOST) award. WTGF also presented Odessa College with a plaque in recognition of its support of Hardt’s work and commitment to science education.

The MOST award recognizes exceptional science educators who demonstrate passion, dedication, and excellence in teaching. WTGF believes outstanding educators play a vital role in society by shaping students’ minds through engaging and impactful science instruction.

“The West Texas Geology Foundation is thrilled to highlight and support outstanding science teachers in the region,” Emerald said. “Joshua Hardt stood out for his enthusiasm and commitment to student success. We thank Mr. Hardt for being an inspiring leader in our science community.”

“I was completely caught off guard,” Hardt said. “To be recognized like this, especially in front of my students, was incredibly meaningful. Teaching is about helping students discover how science connects to the real world. I’m grateful to WTGF and Odessa College for supporting that mission, and also to my wife for her constant support.”

WTGF is a nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening and expanding the geoscience community throughout the Permian Basin. Through scholarships, teacher training, student programs, and academic support, the foundation works to empower the next generation of scientists.

MOST awards are presented to science teachers of any discipline serving grades 7–12 at public or private schools within the Region 18 Education Service Center area. For the 2024–2025 academic year, Joshua Hardt is one of only nine science teachers selected to receive this honor.