We welcomed educators from near and far this summer — from Texas to Quebec and Indiana to Hawaii — each and every one bringing their passion, creativity, and commitment to educating for a sustainable future. Summer is without a doubt the most wonderful time for professional learning; we can gather as peers and engage in deep conversations about what it means to be educated in the context of today’s opportunities and challenges. No matter the particular program, we reflect on our collective practice as educators and explore how we can transform education to engage all learners. Each time we gather we hope to offer a connection to place, a growing network of educators, time for reflection, rejuvenation of the spirit, inspiring presenters (and of course great food from the Farm)!
Participants in the Summer Institute on EFS took a learning journey to the Sustainability Academy to learn from Sustainability Coach Suzanne Weishaar.
We're committed to the educators who join us in our mission. Here' s what they're saying about the 2016 summer professional development on the Farm:
I have come away with a much better understanding of its [EFS] principles, as well how to use sustainability as a lens for my teaching... I especially appreciated the work on linking diversity, the dynamics of power and privilege, and cultural responsiveness to sustainability.
– Summer Institute on Educating for Sustainability participant
Although this was my first ever Professional Development opportunity since getting a job as a teacher I feel that the bar has been set extremely high. I never felt like my time was wasted and Jen and Ryan created an environment in which you felt safe to take risks. I would highly recommend this program to any future colleagues I meet down the road.
– Summer Institute on Educating for Sustainability participant
This week reinvigorated me... Thank you for making me excited to teach!
– Watershed for Every Classroom participant
Thank you for your energy, passion, and knowledge. This was a fantastic experience to fully engage educators and remind us of the value of joy and wonder in experiencing the world around us.
– Project Seasons for Early Learners participant
Watershed for Every Classroom teachers exploring the ecology of the Ausable River in the Adirondack Park of New York.
International participation, farm to school transformation, and new programs and partnerships — here are some highlights from the season:
- Over 250 educators joined us for professional learning programs in June and July representing 15 states and 2 countries outside of the US.
- We convened our second Education for Sustainability Leadership Academy,a year-long program that supports educators and school leaders to transform teaching and learning. We also welcomed four alumni as guest presenters for the summer institutes.
- We launched a new Education for Sustainability Master's degree program with the University of Vermont's Rubenstein School of Environment & Natural Resources and College of Education and Social Services. Learn more about Leadership for Sustainability here.
- We partnered with the National Wildlife Federation/Eco-Schools USA to support educators in integrating climate science and climate change education at our 9th Annual Summer Institute on Education for Sustainability. Read more about the importance of professional learning for educators on this topic here.
Participants in the Education for Sustainability Summer Institute in an Ecology of Place workshop along the shoreline at Shelburne Farms with educator Ryan Morra.
What's next?
We are holding a virtual book launch party of our E-Book that highlights case studies in Education for Sustainability from inspiring teachers and partners from around the country. Join us for a live webinar with the authors. Date and time to be announced soon!