People

Lara Maupin is Executive Director of the Ned Smith Center for Nature and Art in Millersburg, Pennsylvania, where she leads an organization dedicated to connecting people with nature and the arts through environmental education, conservation, and community engagement. Throughout her career, she has worked to expand access to high-quality, hands-on learning experiences, build strategic partnerships, strengthen nonprofit organizations, and inspire lifelong curiosity about the natural world. Her professional experience spans environmental education, STEM education, nonprofit leadership, civics education, fundraising, and organizational development, with a focus on creating meaningful educational experiences that serve learners of all ages.

I just finished my 25th year teaching. I am a regular edudcation teacher who has taught K, 2nd, 6th grades.  I am preparing for my 15th year in 4th grade.  I have Regular Educatin students as well we Learning Support and Autisitc Support students.  I am on a team of Reg Ed and SPED teachers.  I teach ELA, Math, Science and Social Studies.

With over 40 years of active education and conservation work, the Nisqually Reach Nature Center has a proud history of reaching thousands of community members in the South Puget Sound each year with our messages of environmental stewardship and conservation. Through the years, our emphasis has expanded from general public outreach to our current focus on providing supplemental classroom, laboratory, and field trip opportunities for schools in Thurston and Pierce counties and beyond. We also conduct community science monitoring of pigeon guillemots, forage fish, larval crabs, and water quality.

I have been involved in informal eduaction off and on most of my life. As a camp counslor in a Boy Scout camp I first learned my love for teaching outdoor skills and classes. About 10 years ago I quit my blue color job and began working as an outdoor educator. First with the US Forest Service and then a an NPS Park Ranger in the interpretative and education department. My current job combines a lot of my past experinces in a fulfilling way. 

Middle School Social Studies Teacher, avid gardner and outdoor enthusiast

learner teacher of ecology and art

I am the University of Florida IFAS, Monroe County Extension Director. I have an M.A. Degree in Public Administration with a focus on Sustainable Development. I am a Certified Family and Consumer Science Educator. I work with local governments on climate, energy and sustainability.