People

At the Lawrence Hall of Science, Mo contributes to the Center for Environmental Learning’s research and professional learning projects. They support program ideation and design, resource cultivation and maintenance, and communication between partners and across networks. In their prior work, Mo worked in informal science education as an educator, providing STEAM programming to youth of all ages, from pre-K to high school. Mo’s work as an educator has always been driven by their passion for fostering SEL-balanced and learner-centered experiences. Mo received their B.S. in Biology from University of California, Santa Cruz. 

My name is Anastasia Oxendine.  I have been a science teacher for 8 years.  My current teaching position is 6th/7th grade at a charter school in my local town.  Prior to that, I taught 8th grade science in the local public school system.  I have taught science in grades 5th-8th.  I am also certified for 9th grade science and will be pursuing teaching 9th grade Earth/Environmental science at my local high school in the upcoming school year. 

Passionate Environmental Advocate  l   Dedicated to Improving Environmental Health & Education

Justin's work as K-12 Science Coordinator in the town of Suffield CT focuses on deeping connections to community and nature for all students in the district though a platform called 'K-5 Outside.'  Using a place based lens, Justin is guiding a district with transition to place based education and actively working to enable teachers to take the learning outdoors.  Justin also serves as NAAE Affilate organization the Connecticut Outdoor and Environmental Educators Association (COEEA) president.   

Willamette Partnership is a conservation non-profit with a deep commitment to helping build stronger, healthier, and more equitable communities. We believe that people need nature and that the well-being of communities and natural systems is inextricably linked. We do our work by building and supporting strong, multi-partner, multi-benefit solutions through effective collaboration.

When their firstborns were one, Carla and Julia started a Spanish immersion playgroup for families in Atlanta’s intown communities. This experience sparked conversations about children, education, and language learning—ultimately inspiring their vision for Atlanta’s first nature-based Spanish immersion school.

Over the next two years, Carla and Julia developed the school’s curriculum, drawing on their expertise in Waldorf education, language acquisition, child development, music education, and nature connection. What began as a two-day toddler program in their homes soon grew into a full early childhood education program.

Primavera found its first home in Candler Park at the Old Stone Church, where the First Existentialist Congregation welcomed them with open arms. The school transformed the church basement into a creative learning space and used the community garden and woodland sanctuary as outdoor classrooms. A natural partnership grew from shared values of education, cultural diversity, and community.

I am the Education Program Coordinator for the Alabama Forestry Foundation and the State Coordinator for Project Learning Tree. I lead many environmental education programs for K-12 and teachers.

I have my degree in Natural Resources Management and Nature-based Recreation through the College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment at Auburn University. I was active during my time in college; as president of the Society for Natural Resources, a member of the Forest Environment Wildlife Leadership Academy, was awarded Natural Resources Student of the Year and graduated Cum Laude. 

In the past, I have worked in nature-based education and recreation. I have a passion for outdoor education and environmental interpretation. I am proud to be an advocate of our natural world. What a privilege it is to work with the planet Earth!