Congratulations to Frank Chuang, a Los Angeles-based EnCorps Fellow and recipient of the 2026 Bonnie Reiss Memorial Scholarship.
Established in 2018 by the EnCorps Board of Directors, the Bonnie Reiss Memorial Scholarship honors former California Secretary of Education and EnCorps Board Member Bonnie Reiss. Bonnie was a force for good who dedicated her life to education, public service, and advocacy. She believed deeply in the “power of one,” the idea that one person can make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
The scholarship recognizes EnCorps Fellows who demonstrate courage, resilience, and a strong commitment to teaching and public service.
A Commitment to Educational Equity
Before exploring teaching through EnCorps STEM Teachers Program, Frank worked as a mechanical engineer at Tesla and earned his PhD in mechanical engineering from UC Berkeley. Alongside his technical background, Frank developed a deep commitment to educational equity through his experience tutoring inmates at San Quentin State Prison.
“That experience really taught me the importance of equitable education. While the program was great, it felt like a bandaid on a bigger issue. We should have given them the right first chance.”
Through his Volunteer Guest Teaching placement at Bright Star Schools Stella Academy, Frank brought both his industry experience and his passion for equitable STEM education into the classroom. During his Take-Over Day lesson, Frank helped students solve systems of equations using elimination while connecting algebra concepts to real-world problem solving and collaborative thinking.
Throughout the lesson, Frank encouraged students to explain their thinking, work through mistakes, and collaborate with one another to solve problems. His thoughtful and student-centered approach helped create an engaging classroom environment where students could build both confidence and understanding.
Frank consistently demonstrated patience, reflection, and a strong commitment to helping students feel supported in STEM learning.
Frank has officially been accepted into the Alder Graduate School of Education Residency Program and will return to Stella Academy as a resident teacher, once again matched with his host teacher, Ms. Romero, for the upcoming school year.
During the scholarship review process, Frank stood out for his perseverance, reflective approach to teaching, and dedication to creating meaningful learning experiences for students.
The Bonnie Reiss Memorial Scholarship recognizes Fellows who embody the values Bonnie championed throughout her life: public service, resilience, and the belief that education can transform lives.
About the Bonnie Reiss Memorial Scholarship
Former California Secretary of Education and EnCorps Board Member Bonnie Reiss was a force for good, directing her energy, passion, and intelligence to advocate for children, education, the environment, and political reform. She brought out the best in people and inspired those around her with her enthusiasm. She believed profoundly in the “power of one” and that one person can make a difference with a life well lived.
In her memory, the EnCorps Board of Directors created in 2019 the Bonnie Reiss Memorial Scholarship. The $5,000 award is given annually to an EnCorps Fellow who demonstrates outstanding courage and resilience and who is committed to public service through teaching.