National Environmental Education Week highlights the critical work educators do to instill a passion for science and the environment in their students. This year it takes place on April 19-23.  

The goal is to create awareness of the damage modern society has done to the world, and to teach the next generation to be environmentally responsible.

However, one week is not enough to create citizens who consider themselves stewards of the environment. For this reason, the National Environmental Education Foundation is asking educators to make this a central part of education and to incorporate it in their lesson plans throughout the school year. Educators can visit their website neefusa.org and register to receive high-quality materials and other resources.

Green STEM

The future of our children depends on a healthy environment and a strong educational foundation rooted in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. In other words, STEM skills are essential for solving real-world environmental issues.

“We all need to join together to empower our students to become the inventors, scientists, and engineers who will make the world a better place,” writes Collin O’Mara, President & CEO of the National Wildlife Federation in their Green STEM Guidebook.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, STEM occupations are projected to grow 10.8% between 2021-2031. This is compared to only 4.9% growth for all other careers. The STEM disciplines will prepare students for the jobs of tomorrow. It is crucial then that all young people be STEM-literate.

Families play a vital role in raising awareness about the value of STEM and supporting their students. PIQE is proud to offer parents STEM interactive workshops.

The National Wildlife Federation’s Green STEM Guidebook is a great resource for educators. It provides a clear pathway to excite, motivate, and educate the next generation of innovators, and math and technology whizzes.

Put It Into Practice

The Fleet Science Center in Balboa Park is hosting an exhibition called Power Play San Diego, which demonstrates the role of sustainability, renewable energy, and the power grid.

It is a fun way for kids to learn where energy comes from and how it is managed as it gets into your home.  Visitors need to deliver power to homes, offices, schools, and other businesses while maximizing the use of renewable energy sources and avoiding a blackout!

This is a fun activity to do with our children to start a conversation around the importance of taking care of the environment.