Eligibility

Who is eligible? 

Sustainability is an interdisciplinary topic connected to STEM, civics, economics, communications, literature, art, health, and other areas. All K-12th grade teachers interested in exploring sustainability issues through the lens of their discipline are invited to apply. We seek a group of teachers committed to preparing their students to be the present and future problem solvers. 

Eligibility Requirements for New and Returning Fellows 

• K-12th teachers of all disciplines interested in teaching sustainability issues.

• Educators working in Arenac, Bay, Gratiot, Isabella, Midland, or Saginaw counties and surrounding communities.

• Individuals and teams are eligible to participate. Interdisciplinary teams are encouraged to apply. 

• Commitment to participate in up to 30 hours of professional development and program engagement during the summer and 25-26 school year. For specific dates of sessions and events, please go to Applicant Information.

• Design and implement a project and place-based learning experience around a local sustainability issue related to climate change during the 2025-26 school year that engages students in at least 5 hours of outdoor learning, including an action program and public student presentations. 

• Collect and share artifacts of your learning and student work; complete reflection activities and project reporting.

• Engage in virtual and in-person collaborative design sessions and other sharing activities throughout the school year