Inside the walls of Mr. Bandstra’s classroom at Sioux Center Christian science isn’t just about formulas and textbooks, it’s about pickles, balloon cars, and getting your hands dirty to help the community. Mr. Bandstra has spent 37 years dedicated to teaching the 6th graders. he state recognized his dedication this year. It named him one of Iowa’s STEM Teachers of the Year — the first-ever recipient from Sioux Center Christian and the only non‑public school teacher honored.
For Principal Paul Brenner, the award is a testament to the vibrant, and often unpredictable, learning environment Bandstra creates.
Although people know him for these engaging activities, he has reshaped his philosophy over the years. Moreover, Bandstra explains that in his early years his motivation was more self‑centered, but that has changed.
Real Work for Real Needs
This “STEM with heart” philosophy is clear in his class’s partnership with Oak Grove Park. Following major erosion damage from storms in the summer of 2024, Bandstra saw a chance for his students to apply their STEM knowledge to a real-world crisis.
The project didn’t end in science class. It moved into Gretchen De Witt’s English Language Arts (ELA) classroom. De Witt, who has taught with Bandstra for nine years, says Bandstra’s effectiveness comes from deeply understanding his students’ development.
Working together, Bandstra and De Witt challenged the students to find a lasting solution for the park. In English and Grammar class the students wrote a grant proposal to the Sioux County Soil and Water Conservation District.
They earned the $500 grant. In spring 2025, the class returned to Oak Grove to implement their designs, including new steps and a “one‑rock dam” to slow rainwater.
A Lasting Legacy
Bandstra credits his parents and the energy of his students for his long and successful career.
Trails flooding is just one of the projects for Oak Grove students have worked on in Mr. Bandstra’s class.
Cover photo from the Iowa Department of Education Facebook Page.
