LOS ANGELES, Oct. 6, 2009 -- Northrop Grumman Foundation announced that its Earthwatch Educator Program, an innovative environmental education program for middle school teachers across the country, is now accepting applications.
Twenty-two educators will be selected from communities in which the company operates to participate in an Earthwatch expedition focused on climate change or ocean preservation. These educators will join leading scientists in conducting environmental research. This invaluable experience is intended to be transferred to the classroom and shared with students year after year.
"Through this unique partnership with Earthwatch Institute, Northrop Grumman Foundation aims to help reverse the national trend of declining student interest in science, technology, engineering and math," said Sandra Evers-Manly, president of the Northrop Grumman Foundation. "Last year's program was a success, and we hope that this year's educators will further our mission to make science and math fascinating and applicable to students."
The Northrop Grumman Foundation partnered with Earthwatch Institute last year to develop two expeditions that provide educators with a hands-on professional development opportunity, which will ultimately impact students' math and science education and help create the next generation of environmental ambassadors.
Teachers can choose between two missions: one in the Bahamas, the other in the Arctic. The Bahamas project will focus on examining the effects of growing coastal development on the plants and animals living in the Bahamian archipelago. Educators will have the chance to support sustainable development of these scenic isles. The Arctic project will take teachers to the edge of the Arctic tundra in Churchill, Canada to monitor ecosystem response to global warming.