WHY ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION?
Environmental education is crucial for preparing the next generation to address the environmental challenges of our time. It fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and a sense of responsibility towards the environment. By integrating environmental education into all areas of learning, we help students develop the skills and knowledge needed to create a sustainable future for themselves and their communities.
Mission and Vision
Our organizational mission is to inspire and empower educators by providing innovative resources, programs, and support that foster high-quality environmental education across the Pacific Northwest. We envision a thriving community of educators and learners, united in their commitment to nurturing a sustainable and resilient future for all. By facilitating the exchange of effective teaching practices, regional knowledge, and creative approaches, we help cultivate a deeper understanding and stewardship of our natural systems, ensuring a healthy and sustainable future for generations to come.
Values
- Community: We believe in the power of connection and collaboration. By building strong, supportive networks of educators, students, and community leaders, we create a shared commitment to environmental education that strengthens our collective impact.
- Empowerment: We strive to equip educators with the resources, knowledge, and confidence they need to inspire and engage their students. We are dedicated to supporting educators in their journey to deliver high-quality, impactful environmental education.
- Innovation: We embrace creativity and forward-thinking in environmental education. We encourage the development and adoption of new teaching methods and approaches that reflect the dynamic nature of our world and the diverse needs of our communities.
- Equity and Inclusion: We are committed to promoting equity in environmental education. We actively seek to remove barriers and create inclusive learning opportunities that reflect and respect the diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives of all students and educators.
- Stewardship: We believe in fostering a deep respect and care for the natural world. Our work is grounded in the understanding that education is a powerful tool for cultivating environmental stewardship and responsibility in both current and future generations.
- Sustainability: We are dedicated to promoting sustainable practices in education and beyond. We aim to inspire educators and students to think critically about their relationship with the environment and to take action towards creating a more sustainable future.
Commitment to Equity
We are committed to promoting equity in environmental education by recognizing and addressing systemic barriers that have historically marginalized communities. We believe that a sustainable future is only possible when all voices are heard, respected, and included. We are dedicated to creating inclusive spaces where educators and learners of all backgrounds can engage in meaningful, place-based learning experiences. Our work actively seeks to uplift diverse perspectives and create pathways for underrepresented communities to participate fully in environmental education.
Our Work
- Empowering Educators: We provide educators with cutting-edge resources, ideas, and support to deliver impactful environmental education.
- Fostering Connections: We connect educators, programs, and communities across the Pacific Northwest, creating a network that spans diverse cultural and ecological landscapes.
- Promoting Best Practices: We offer a platform for sharing effective interdisciplinary, place-based teaching methods that enhance environmental literacy for all ages.
- Collaborating for Impact: We partner with universities, government agencies, and businesses to elevate environmental education, research, and practices that contribute to environmental sustainability.