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Each year, the Alberta Emerald Foundation receives over 100 nominations in a number of categories.  An independent panel of judges reviews these and selects finalists and award recipients.  CPAWS Calgary/Banff was nominated by local teacher, Erin Couillard, in the Education: other organization category.  The CPAWS submission was named one of three Finalists in that category.

“Not only do CPAWS Educators teach classes about ecological and scientific principles, but they challenge students to take it a step further by engaging in stewardship projects in their local communities.  Students learn that their small actions can make a huge difference,” says Couillard, who has brought CPAWS programs into her classroom for the past two years.

Though they didn’t leave with the top award, the CPAWS Education Team was honoured to be included on a roster of such talented and impressive nominations.  “Participating in the Emerald Awards reminded us about all the great conservation work that is going on in Alberta.  Our peers challenge and inspire us to improve our own programs.  It is exciting to be considered part of such a talented community” says Anne-Marie Syslak, School Programs Coordinator for the Calgary/Banff chapter.  “Even more thrilling, is that this honour arrives as we mark the ten-year anniversary of the education program.” 

Since 1997, CPAWS Calgary/Banff has met the demand for environmental education programming throughout southern Alberta.  It has delivered over 2000 programs to 56000 students and their teachers.  Current programs focus on two themes: grizzly bear ecology and conservation, and endangered species.  In-school presentations, guided hikes and teacher training are attractive to teachers as they integrate Alberta Learning curriculum using interesting environmental themes.

CPAWS also encourages students to conserve the environment.  Unique to CPAWS, the Community Environmental Action Challenge encourages students to undertake stewardship projects that build leadership and civic engagement skills among youth.  Nearly 60 per cent of classes initiate action projects.  The CPAWS Education Team is a leader locally and among the 13 CPAWS chapters across the country for providing environmental and action education programs.