Michael S. Regan 16th Administrator, United States Environmental Protection Agency | Official Website
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), in partnership with the White House Council on Environmental Quality, announced that Shari Insley, a fifth-grade math and science teacher at Pine Intermediate School in North Olmsted, Ohio, has been awarded the 2024 Presidential Innovation Award for Environmental Educators.
“We are delighted to celebrate and recognize the remarkable contributions of educators and students across our country,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “Our awardees exemplify commitment to environmental education and steadfast leadership in taking creative and innovative approaches to protect human health and tackle climate change. To the awardees, we extend our sincere appreciation for your unwavering dedication to environmental stewardship – we look forward to seeing what you accomplish next.”
“Environmental stewardship often begins in the classroom with young people and educators who are taking our planet’s most pressing climate change and environmental justice challenges head on,” said White House Council on Environmental Quality Chair Brenda Mallory. “This year’s awardees represent passionate and dedicated leaders who are tackling the climate crisis, improving public health, and delivering a more equitable future for all.”
With over 18 years of teaching experience, Shari Insley prioritizes dynamic and engaging learning environments for her students. Her work extends beyond the classroom as she integrates service-learning experiences into her curriculum to inspire curiosity among her students. She is attentive to her students' needs, ensuring individualized instruction. Through outdoor activities, research endeavors, and collaborations with local experts, Insley's students engage in hands-on learning experiences.
“I'm honored to be a PIAEE awardee and help inspire the next generation of aquatic scientists,” said Shari Insley.
In collaboration with fellow educators, Insley created the North Olmsted Middle School Water Guardians Project. This initiative allows students to use scientific equipment for research and water sample testing, gaining practical insights into environmental science. During these studies, students collaborate with field experts who encourage inquiry-based learning. Additionally, Insley hosts a field trip to Ohio State University’s Stone Laboratory where scientists discuss topics relevant to Lake Erie’s ecosystem.
The Presidential Innovation Award for Environmental Educators was established by the 1990 National Environmental Education Act. It recognizes outstanding environmental projects performed by teachers who go beyond textbook instruction by incorporating creative experiences that enrich student learning in K-12 education. The CEQ administers this award in partnership with the EPA.
Nine educators from across the country received this year’s award. Winning educators demonstrated leadership by integrating environmental education into multiple subjects using topics such as climate change, environmental justice, water infrastructure, waste management, water quality, environmentally friendly agricultural practices, STEM education, and school gardens.
For detailed information about the winning projects: PIAEE Winners.Exit EPA’s website
