Coastal environment teacher at Sullivan’s Island Elementary to be recognized with STEM Award
April 18, 2016
Holly Blair, the coastal environment teacher at Sullivan’s Island Elementary School, will be recognized next month for her dedication to educating future generations of environmental stewards. She will join six other teachers from across South Carolina in receiving the InterTech Group Award for Excellence in STEM Education.
Ms. Blair was selected for her commitment to STEM education and conservation initiatives within her classroom as well as her community.
“My goal has always been to educate people of all ages about the delicate, yet dynamic, nature of South Carolina’s coastline and habitats,” said Ms. Blair. “Teaching about our coastal environment through STEM is immensely rewarding and helps everyone see the relevance and importance of conservation and preserving the green and blue spaces we so cherish.”
As a coastal environment instructor, Ms. Blair introduces her students to the marine sciences through problem-based learning investigations and hands-on instruction in the field and in her lab. The wet lab has over 20 tanks/habitats that she and the students have created and maintain. The biological systems are in-depth with over 500 gallons of water and instill an interest, curiosity, and relationships between students and the species.
“Ms. Blair’s wet lab and her outdoor excursions provide concrete, engaging learning experiences for our students,” said Susan King, Sullivan’s Island Elementary School principal. “She is truly a role model for students at all grade levels. Not only does she love working with ‘critters’ but she helps students begin to understand the myriad of connections between ocean ecology and their world.”
“We are delighted that the InterTech Group has chosen to honor Ms. Blair for her excellence in STEM education, as these skills are imperative for student success in today’s world,” said Anita Huggins, CCSD Executive Director for the Office of Teacher Effectiveness.
Ms. Blair will be officially recognized with the InterTech Group Award for Excellence in STEM Education at the South Carolina Aquarium’s Conservation Gala on May 7, 2016. The event starts at 6:00 p.m. and takes place at Liberty Square and the South Carolina Aquarium.
