The Alabama Cooperative Extension System at Alabama A&M University’s Urban Environmental Science Education Program (UESEP), in partnership with Project Learning Tree (PLT) and the Alabama Forestry Foundation, hosted a dynamic environmental educational workshop for teachers entitled “Roots of Learning: Using Nature to Crosscut Concepts” in November 2025.

The all-day event welcomed 28 educators from eight school districts and provided hands-on training on topics such as the water cycle, tree identification, and invasive species management. Most participants taught in middle schools (52%), followed by high schools (40%) and elementary schools (8%). The majority specialized in science (72%), while smaller groups taught math (16%), history (4%), and other subjects (8%). Much of the workshop took place outdoors, where teachers engaged in sensory-rich activities designed to spark curiosity and support cross-curricular learning.

Collaboration Across Expertise

The program was led by a team of professionals representing diverse fields:

• Nikki Cobb, Forestry, Wildlife & Natural Resources Extension Agent, Alabama Cooperative Extension System
• Jaquie Parker, Education Program Coordinator & State Coordinator, Project Learning Tree
• Ed Lewis, Forestry Management Specialist, Alabama Forestry Commission
• Whit Carroll, Wildlife Biologist, Alabama Forestry Foundation
• Bence Carter, Conservation Biologist, Alabama Forestry Foundation

Impact on Educators

Educators at Roots of Learning Workshop

The survey results highlighted several positive outcomes. Before the workshop, only 27 percent of participants were familiar with PLT, the adopted curriculum for UESEP. Interest in becoming a PLT facilitator was also promising, with approximately 73 percent expressing some level of interest. Most participants agreed they would share the newly acquired knowledge with their students, with 56 percent strongly agreeing and 44 percent agreeing.

Satisfaction with the training was very high, with 72 percent strongly agreeing and 28 percent agreeing that they would recommend it to colleagues. Confidence in teaching environmental topics also increased, with 68 percent strongly agreeing and 32 percent agreeing they felt better prepared to teach the subject matter.

These findings reveal that the workshop expanded awareness and knowledge while also strengthening educators’ abilities to teach environmental education. In addition, participants departed with 140 continuing education units, Extension resources, and practical tools, including the Project Learning Tree Explore Your Environment: K-8 Activity Guide to bring environmental education into their classrooms. The program also established a deeper understanding of Alabama’s natural resources.

Educator Testimonials

• I loved the interactions and activities they exposed us to. The instructors were engaging and knowledgeable. They made this one of the best professional developments I’ve ever been to.
• One of the most beneficial workshops that I have been to. Thank you!
• Great program.
• It was phenomenal!
• I really enjoyed the professional development!

Lasting Outcomes

Educators departed energized, equipped with new strategies, and motivated to inspire students as future environmental stewards. The workshop highlighted the importance of collaboration among diverse stakeholders in strengthening education and conservation across Alabama.