MADAWASKA – A St. Agatha man has been recognized nationally for excellence in teaching biology.

James Dugal, who has taught at Madawaska Middle-High School for 32 years, has been named the 2003 Outstanding Biology Teacher for Maine by the National Association of Biology Teachers.

The veteran educator will receive his award during ceremonies at the National Conference for Biology Teachers in Portland, Ore., in October. The Madawaska school department is funding Dugal’s trip.

Dugal was nominated by Superintendent Tim Doak.

“I nominated him because the effort he’s put in as a biology teacher for 32 years is tremendous,” Doak said Thursday. “His commitment to our school, his peers, the teachers, and students especially is commendable.”

While attending the conference, Doak said, Dugal will receive science equipment to bring back for his classroom. Dugal and the Madawaska school will also be recognized on the national association’s Web site.