PHILADELPHIA -- The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has awarded David Andrews of Butler Junior High School in Butler, Pa. with the Presidential Innovation Award for Environmental Educators (PIAEE).
"David Andrews’ dedication to environmental education inspires students to promote sustainability in their school and their community,” said EPA Regional Administrator Shawn M. Garvin. “He oversees several classroom projects that provide his students with a greater awareness of environmental issues and an appreciation of natural resources.”
Andrews, a general science, environmental science and chemistry teacher, was one of 17 teachers nationwide who received a PIAEE award.
Andrews raises brook trout with students through the “Trout in the Classroom” program and then releases the fish into streams to boost the local fish population. He also works with his students to conduct fish population and water quality surveys.
Andrews also oversees other classroom projects including tree-plantings, litter cleanups, coordinating paper recycling and providing opportunities for students to work with professional biologists. His work with local waterways encourages students to give back to their local communities and foster a sense of environmental stewardship..
