Newswise — Earthwatch Institute, Maynard, MA, September 16, 2008—Six area school teachers who participated on Earthwatch expeditions around the world this summer—thanks to the Tampa Bay Rays—will be recognized at a special awards ceremony preceding the Rays-Sox game on Wednesday, September 17th, at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, Florida.
"We've seen firsthand the transformative power Earthwatch expeditions can have for teachers," said Stephen Fulmer, Director of Fellowship Engagement at Earthwatch, "and we are grateful for the continued generosity of the Tampa Bay Rays in giving these teachers an experience of a lifetime."
This is the third year the Rays have sponsored teacher fellows on Earthwatch expeditions. Each teacher also receives a $2500 award for their school to implement a conservation project.
"By doing real science with top-notch scientists, the teachers invigorate their own spirit of discovery, learning and adventure—and return to their classrooms fired up to share their enthusiasm with their students, who are the environmental stewards of tomorrow," Fulmer said.
For example, Judith Fell from Citrus Park Elementary participated in the Bahamian Reef Survey with scientist John Rollino. "I am anxious to show and tell my students and colleagues about the reefs, these rainforests of the ocean," she said. "What a year this will be! I have photos and Bahama stories galore to roll into the curriculum."
This year's recipient list—along with the projects they participated on this summer--includes:
"¢ Sarah Cooman, Sunset Hills School, Trinidad's Leatherback Sea Turtles"¢ Judith Fell, Citrus Park Elementary, Bahamian Reef Survey"¢ Bradley Jackson, Valrico Elementary, Sharks and Rays of Monterey"¢ Shannon O'Sullivan, Lake Magdalene Elementary, Mammals of Nova Scotia"¢ Jodi Warson, Bay Point Elementary, Sharks and Rays of Monterey "¢ Linda Whitaker, Palm Harbor University High School, Sharks and Rays of Monterey
REPORTERS ARE INVITED TO ATTEND SEPTEMBER 17th EVENT FOR INTERVIEWS/PHOTOS. OTHER IMAGES ALSO AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST.
The mission of the Earthwatch Institute is to engage people worldwide in scientific field research and education to promote the understanding and action necessary for a sustainable environment. In 2008, Earthwatch will sponsor 130 research projects in more than 40 countries and 20 US states, making estimated volunteer field grants of $5 million. Since its founding in 1971, the organization has supported nearly 1,350 projects in 120 countries and 35 states. More than 90,000 volunteers have contributed $67 million and 11 million hours to scientific fieldwork.
The Tampa Bay Rays have proudly represented Major League Baseball in the Tampa Bay region since 1998. The organization and its foundation are committed to building a strong community bond through meaningful interaction and charitable contributions.
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