Virtual Teach-In for Climate Change

A New Wave for Education

October marked the second anniversary of Superstorm Sandy and the second anniversary for Clean Ocean Action’s Virtual Teach-In, which was created in response to Superstorm Sandy to educate coastal communities about the science behind extreme weather.

Teachers, Girl Scout leaders, environmental educators, and librarians joined the tide of educators throughout the tri-state area  through participating in the Virtual Teach-in during the week of October 27^th. The students ranged from Kindergarten to 12^th grade and were able to take something away from the lesson.

Resources and lesson plans were provided to the educators and were complete with videos, activities, and instructional aids. The topics included: Climate Change, Global Warming, Sea Level Rise, Your Carbon Footprint, Greenhouse Gasses, and the Science Behind Hurricanes and Superstorm Sandy.

This year, over 15 educators, ranging from 12 schools, 3 groups, and 1 Girl Scout Troop were able to virtually bring Clean Ocean Action resources into their classrooms to learn more about the science behind Superstorm Sandy, climate change, and sea level rise. COA hopes to expand its reach and materials in the upcoming years to educate as many students about this pressing issue as possible.  

“The Virtual Teach-In is an opportunity to emphasize the importance of education about extreme weather events,” said Catie Tobin, Marine Science Education Coordinator. “With resources ranging from pre-K to 12^th grade, educators can reach a larger group of students and integrate lessons at any education level.”

The Virtual Teach-In emphasizes the need for continued outreach to educators in the wake of natural disasters, such as Superstorm Sandy. Science is ever-evolving and we encourage the topics taught in the classroom to reflect that.  This program provided fresh and innovative ways to reach students and teach them about pressing issues that most experience first hand.