I am writing to express my enthusiastic support for the first Climate Education Week, which will be held in Maryland during the first week of April, which marks Earth Month. This initiative, led by the Maryland Climate Change Commission and supported by Governor Wes Moore, is an important step in preparing students for the challenges of climate change (“Climate change is at the top of this year’s General Assembly agenda”). must be a priority”). January 9).
As an educator in Maryland, I am excited to see our state taking proactive steps to educate our youth about climate science and its impacts. Climate change is not a distant threat. Extreme weather events, rising temperatures, and other environmental impacts are currently impacting our communities. By equipping students with the knowledge and skills to understand and address these challenges, we invest in their futures and the future of our planet.
In addition to focusing on science lessons, Climate Education Week is designed to integrate climate-related topics across a variety of subjects and focus on the social, economic, and ethical aspects of the issue. This interdisciplinary approach will prepare students to become informed citizens who can advocate for climate change policies, reduce carbon emissions, and build community resilience.
Additionally, high-quality climate instruction develops critical thinking skills and empathy for vulnerable communities that are disproportionately affected by climate change. By equipping our students with these competencies, we are creating a generation capable of tackling the climate crisis head-on.
I applaud Maryland's efforts in climate education and encourage other states to follow suit. It is essential to prioritize climate literacy in schools to ensure that future generations are prepared to tackle the challenges posed by climate change.
This Earth Month, let us all draw inspiration from Maryland's example and work toward a more sustainable future for our planet.
— Mary Kay Connerton, Annapolis
The author has been named Maryland's 2023-24 Teacher of the Year.
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