The Green Blog Network: Education And Environment Kick Off

Teachers in the Santa Monica – Malibu Unified School District are introduced to EEI at Point Dume Marine Science Elementary School

[From the office of Sen. Pavley]

I was thrilled recently to give a taped kick-off speech to teachers in the Santa Monica – Malibu Unified School District - some of the first in the state to begin teaching using the Education and the Environment Initiative (EEI). EEI is a unique opportunity to formally include environment-based education into California's classrooms.

I authored the landmark EEI law while I was serving in the Assembly. The bill (AB 1548) was sponsored by Heal the Bay, a non-profit environmental organization based in Santa Monica. The goal is to teach students about their relationship with the environment – and to do that by weaving environmental principles and concepts into existing curriculum in science and social science.

The EEI curriculum is the result of unprecedented cooperation between the California Environmental Protection Agency and the California Department of Education. More than 100 scientists and technical experts from across the state contributed to the development of this landmark curriculum. These experts represent state agencies, universities, businesses and industry, and environmental organizations. They've all shown enormous dedication.

This first–in-the-nation curriculum has gone through a very rigorous review. The format is age and content appropriate. Many pilot schools have given EEI a test run and the results have been wonderful! The teachers participating in the orientations for the Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District were very enthusiastic and we've received nothing but positive feedback. This curriculum will help prepare students to compete in a global economy. It will educate them in local and global issues that will impact the rest of their lives. It will prepare students to become future scientists, economists, and green technology leaders.

I'd like to congratulate the Santa Monica – Malibu Unified School District for implementing EEI. I'd also like to thank all of the teachers for their dedication to educating our future leaders.

The Green Blog Network