Seeing Ourselves in Nature: Diversity, Equity & Inclusion in Outdoor Learning
Free 1 Hour Virtual Workshop! Tues, Jan 13 at 4pm Pacific / 7pm Eastern Time
The lived experiences and cultural knowledge of Indigenous, Black, and other educators and families of the Global Majority are not always well represented in outdoor learning. Nor are all outdoor learning spaces equitable and inclusive. Join Jessica, Camille and Dan to explore what theory and practice you can bring to make sure all students see themselves in nature.
Facilitators
- Jessica Fong is the Director of Education at Openlands, where she leads nature-based programming for educators, students, and families across Chicago. A Latina educator and child of Guatemalan immigrants, Jessica began teaching in Guatemala in 2007 and has since become a national advocate for dual language and nature-based early childhood education. She holds two master’s degrees and is currently pursuing a doctorate in Educational Sustainability. Her work centers equity, cultural identity, and community stewardship, with a focus on ensuring BIPOC children and families feel safe, seen, and celebrated in outdoor learning spaces. She is the author of Seeing Ourselves in Nature: Stories from Educators and Children of Indigenous, Black and other people of the Global Majority.
- Camille Simone Edwards is a DEI practitioner of fourteen years and currently serves as the Director of Student Affairs at Friends Academy, a Quaker independent school on Long Island, New York. In schools, her passion ignites around the intrapersonal and interpersonal professional development opportunities for educators who are engaging and leading DEI efforts and advancements across their school communities. She coaches executive teams, designs & facilitates retreats, and specializes in strategic community engagement initiatives.
- Dan Kriesberg has been a middle school science teacher and environmental educator for over 40 years at both public and independent schools. He is the author of two books on outdoor environmental education, over 100 articles on environmental education, and essays about his outdoor experiences.
All registrants will be able to access the recording, in case you can’t join us live. And all attendees will be able to access a Certificate of Attendance and will be entered to win some great prizes!
Great resources to support diversity in nature include:
