Sustainability Institute for Educators

June 25–27, 2024
8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

SIE logoThe Sustainability Institute for Educators is an event tailored for educators of all backgrounds. This year's focus is on the significance of biodiversity in education, daily life and our communities.

Biodiversity encompasses the variety within and between species, as well as diverse ecosystems. Understanding and appreciating biodiversity is crucial for supporting all life on Earth, including human communities. Lessons on biodiversity can foster a deep nature connection and appreciation for the myriad of plants, animals and fungi in our environment.

Climate change, human impacts and land use pose major threats to biodiversity, but education can cultivate a sense of wonder and respect for nature’s processes, and equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to address today’s challenges.

Through interactive sessions and local biodiversity expert presentations, educators will learn just how important biodiversity is and how to bring connections to biodiversity topics to their learning spaces.

Sessions will demonstrate how a range of disciplines can work together to understand and address biodiversity issues, opportunities and needs through education and youth engagement while highlighting local examples of biodiversity work. Discover how solutions-orientated actions, projects and lessons can help build resilience and protect the future of biodiversity on this planet.

Join us to gain knowledge, tools, strategies and community networking to explore biodiversity and help engage students around this critical issue.

Learning locations will include Missouri Botanical Garden, Saint Louis Zoo, and Webster University. The $125 registration fee includes participation in the three-day Institute and lunch. Graduate credit is available through Webster University for an additional cost. Scholarships are available.

Learning Outcomes

  • Understand the interconnectedness of sustainability issues and the intersection with education
  • Recognize local resources that can support curriculum and changes for sustainability
  • Collaborate with others to empower sustainably minded citizens
  • Create a community of advocates for sustainable schools, institutions and communities
  • Setting a foundation for adaption and resilience in sustainability education

Learn more

Teachers participating in discussion

Teachers exchange ideas by writing on posterboard
Teachers work together