BRIDGEPORT, W.Va. (WDTV) – Three educators have been recognized as West Virginia Environmental Teachers of the Year, including one from North Central West Virginia.
The West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection has recognized Tracy Arnold of Leading Creek Elementary in Lewis County.
Arnold and two other teachers are being honored for going above and beyond in promoting environmental awareness in their classrooms, schools and communities.
Arnold, who teaches fifth grade, works with her students on an annual stream study of Leading Creek. She also organizes litter cleanups on the creek and initiated a World Water Day celebration at her school.
Each winning teacher will receive a $500 personal award and a $1,000 check to promote science, technology, engineering and math education at their schools.
Cindy Booth, of Kermit PK-8 in Mingo County, and Melody Hubbard, of Clay County High School, are the other two winners.
“These amazing teachers are playing a pivotal role in helping our students understand the importance of environmental stewardship. Because of their efforts, our schools are producing young citizens equipped with the knowledge to make the right decisions about our environment – decisions that benefit not only their communities but all of West Virginia,” said Annette Hoskins, director of the WVDEP’s Youth Environmental Program and the coordinator for the agency’s Teacher of the Year awards.
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