People

Passionate about providing adolescents with developmentally appropriate environments when they are not in school. Passionate about using experiences in outer nature to understand our inner nature. 

I am a homeschool mother as well as a teacher for 2  homeschool co-op groups. I lead Irwin Preschool-Elementary Homeschool Group where our families take part in field trips, service projects, lesson days, fun days and community get togethers. I have sat on the Kamin Science Center's Teacher Advisory Council and have taken part in various nature based learning courses. I also coach in the local public high school as well. I lead a nature based Christian elementary group in the area as well as enjoying camping and hiking with my family. I believe there is so much to learn from nature and I believe it's done so much more respectfully by experiencing nature first hand. 

Aspiring environmental educator with a Bachelor's in Conservation Biology with a passion for sparking curiosity. 

I am a 6th grade science teacher for Frederick County Public Schools (FCPS). We explore chemistry, our extreme planet, the human body, and ecosystems.

Abbey Matre is a Natural Resources, Environment, and Energy Educator with University of Illinois Extension serving Cook County. Her work focuses on environmental education, conservation outreach, and connecting communities with local natural resources through programs related to habitat restoration, water conservation, and climate resilience. She is passionate about helping people build meaningful connections with the natural world and turn education into action in their communities.

Dr. Teka Bekuma is an Assistant Professor at Wollega University, Ethiopia, currently serving as the Head of the Department of Environmental Science and the University Climate Action Focal Person. He is also the President of the Ethiopian Environmental Science and Education Professionals Association (EESEPA).

Dr. Teka holds a PhD in Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation, an MSc in Geography and Environmental Education, and a BSc in Geography and Environmental Studies. His academic and professional work focuses on climate change, environmental sustainability, environmental education, and community resilience.

At Wollega University, he is actively engaged in leadership, teaching, research, and community service, contributing to environmental science education, climate action initiatives, and professional development in Ethiopia.