Did you know that URI recently launched a new Environmental Education B.S. degree program that prepares students for careers in nonformal education, conservation, and outreach?!
As part of the program, and with support from the Executive Climate Change Coordinating Council (EC4), students complete 100 hours in the role of a professional environmental educator. Through this off-campus practicum experience, students participate in planning, delivering, and evaluating environmental education programs alongside an experienced educator at a RIEEA member organization who serves as their mentor. The goal is to create paid internship opportunities for the students; provide capacity building funding to RIEEA member organizations; and build a collection of localized climate lessons.
RIEEA is proud to serve in a consulting role in this program and we’re so excited that the first three students to participate in this practicum have shared their experiences with us.
Christina Sage
At Mystic Aquarium, Christina is diving into the many ways environmental learning can come to life. From supporting overnight programs and penguin outreach events to assisting with teacher workshops and amphibian surveys, Christina has embraced a wide range of hands-on experiences. As part of her internship project, she designed and built an interactive coral reef activity using the URI makerspace. This hands-on exhibit introduces visitors to coral species, reef biodiversity, and the impacts of climate change while also highlighting actionable steps people can take to protect ocean ecosystems. When asked what her biggest takeaway has been, Christina answered, “I’ve had a lot of experiences where we might plan one activity but then go in a different direction once we see what students are interested in, which I think is a really important factor in environmental education.”
David Leclair
By blending art, storytelling, and environmental education, David is creating meaningful learning experiences for visitors to the Audubon Society of Rhode Island Nature Center and Aquarium. He’s building climate literacy through educational programs and contributing to the development of an exhibit focused on the impacts of climate change on local wildlife. Centered on hope and action, the project uses illustrated panels and Audubon biofacts within a “creature guide” narrative to foster emotional connections between visitors and the species they encounter. Reflecting on a recent interaction with third-grade students from Pawtucket, David shared, “At one point, in reference to the large model whale in the exhibit hall, one student said, “It’s scary. Scary but cool!” and that really stuck with me… Those are the kinds of feelings that leave an impression and make people want to come back.” Moments like these continue to shape David’s approach, reinforcing the power of curiosity and wonder in environmental education.
Julia Souza
At The Compass School, Julia is immersing herself in the day-to-day realities of outdoor learning as an Assistant Teacher on the school’s farm. From leading snowy hikes in the winter to rebuilding the high tunnel in the spring, Julia has embraced the ever-changing rhythm of hands-on education while building strong, supportive relationships with students. She has found particular joy in watching concepts click in real time, noting, “Watching the kids understand and have fun with environmental topics has been so rewarding.” Julia’s mentor highlights her keen awareness and collaborative mindset, and says she anticipates challenges, helps guide students through them, and works closely with staff to strengthen programs. Her enthusiasm has made her a trusted and motivating presence, especially among middle schoolers. This impact will extend beyond her internship, as Julia has been offered a position at the school this fall, continuing her work as an environmental educator and deepening her connection to the community!
Interested in mentoring a student at your organization?
Reach out to Jeannine Swanlund at jeanninelouro (at) uri (dot) edu or Dr. Sara Sweetman at sara_sweetman (at) uri (dot) edu. Please note your organization must be a member of RIEEA in order to participate.