Beverly Elementary School, Lynnwood WA
Study alongside scientists and naturalists in the Galapagos Islands to demonstrate the interdependence of living organisms and inspire students to become change-makers in our communities.
Lots of time spent on boats with amazing people and naturalists!
One of my many naturalists guides. He took us to the most amazing places to snorkel. We got to snorkel with Hammerhead sharks that day!
Bartolome Island hike to study volunteer plants before we got the chance to snorkel with penguins.
Each island has their own species of tortoise. Some islands had their population decimated by pirates who would often take 700 at a time. One islands population was wiped out in less than 10 years.
Frigate Birds were plentiful on North Seymour Island.
The Blue Footed Boobie resides on several islands. They build their nests on the ground and make a circle around their nests to protect their space from others.
My fellowship to the Galapagos Islands will transform my teaching practice by providing firsthand, immersive experiences with unique ecosystems and conservation efforts. I gained a deeper understanding of animal adaptations, habitats, and biodiversity that I can now bring vividly into my classroom. Pursuing this fellowship was vital because it allowed me to step beyond textbooks and virtual sources to witness real world examples of conservation and environmental science.
After this fellowship I see my teaching becoming more experiential, culturally responsive, and globally connected. I will integrate firsthand knowledge and real world examples from the Galapagos to design lessons that are inquiry based encouraging students to explore adaptations, ecosystems, and conservation. My students will experience learning as more engaging, relevant, and empowering developing strong critical thinking and problem solving skills through authentic projects.
I think the biggest unexpected experience for me was snorkeling with Hammerhead sharks. That is something that pushed my comfort zone but was unexpectedly beautiful and calm. I didn't have a fear, just a sense of awe with them swimming below me. I learned that Darwin and Wolf islands host the biggest populations of sharks in the world, and in the Galapagos Marine conservation area all species are protected.
By connecting global ecological concepts to their own urban/suburban environment, students will gain a deep understanding of their roles as global citizens and environmental stewards. They will grow as leaders and change makers, motivated to take meaningful action in their communities. Overall, the fellowship will help shape a richer, more connected learning experience that fosters curiosity, empathy, and agency.
I will be able to add to my Animal Adaptations Unit of Study and have students look at examples from the Galapagos and compare/contrast it with their animal they are studying. Another idea I have will connect to conservation efforts. Inspired by conservation efforts in the Galapagos, students will design and lead a small campaign focused on a local environmental issue, such as recycling or habitat preservation, creating posters, digital presentations, or community outreach materials. I will
By connecting with local environmental organizations and museums, I will create opportunities for students and families to learn and participate in and outside the classroom. By bringing people into the classroom, students and families will be able to develop relationships with the organization, thus learning and building trust to participate outside the classroom.