Swampscott science teacher inducted into hall of fame

SWAMPSCOTT-A Swampscott Middle School science teacher was recently inducted into the Massachusetts Hall of Fame for Science Educators.Bill Andrake, who has been with the district for 23 years, was one of five Hall of Fame inductees this year. Andrake currently teaches seventh grade science at the Middle School where he is using innovative and hands-on approaches to teach his students the fundamentals of marine science.Andrake had an aquaculture facility and saltwater tide pool in his former classroom on Greenwood Avenue. During the summer, the middle school was moved to the former high school on Forest Avenue. Middle School principal Ralph Watson said Andrake spent much of his summer moving and setting up the aquaculture facility and saltwater tide pools.Watson praised Andrake for his dedication and innovative, hands-on teaching methods.?The way he brings science to life for his students is very exciting,” he said. “This is award is well deserved.”In addition to the classroom activities like raising eelgrass and salmon eggs, Andrake takes his students on educational field trips, including oceanography cruises.School Committee Chairman David Whelan said Andrake is an exemplary teacher.?He’s connected the fact that we are a coastal community to the curriculum,” he said. “He has brought excitement to the classroom. He’s really and truly a great teacher and deserves a ton of credit.”Andrake has been involved with Massachusetts Marine Educators for more than 20 years and currently serves on the Board of Directors. Last year, Andrake was recognized by the Massachusetts Marine Educators at the 30th conference of the MME in Woods Hole.