Extension agent knows how to ‘Make It Shine’

CHESTER -- Hancock County's agent for the West Virginia University Extension has been shining a light on science education and environmental awareness for the last few years.

Wednesday morning, those efforts were recognized as Zach White was presented with the West Virginia Make It Shine Environmental Teacher of the Year for Elementary Education by the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection.

"This award goes to an educator in the state who goes above and beyond," explained JoAnn Snoderly, a youth program coordinator with the WVDEP, who was on hand for the presentation at A.T. Allison Elementary.

According to Snoderly, White's efforts have included not only an increased focus on the areas of STEM - representing science, technology, engineering and mathematics - but also his passion for environmental education and sustainability practices.

Among those lessons Snoderly cited were an activity with "Danny the Duck," where students were taught about the importance of keeping waterways clean from garbage to protect aquatic life, as well as learning about the benefits of growing their own food.

"That is all stuff that makes our state better," Snoderly said.

White expressed appreciation for the recognition, but noted it wouldn't have happened without the support of the school and students.

"This, for sure, isn't just my award," he said. "It's all of our award."

Principal Toni Hartung explained White has been coming to the school for three years, but noted, at first, she wasn't certain about the idea of having someone from outside of the school providing lessons to the school's pupils.

"He has just done a fabulous job," she said.

Among recent lessons at the school, youth learned about the process of incubating and raising chickens.

The Make It Shine Environmental Teacher of the Year award is designed to recognize efforts to promote environmental stewardship and education in West Virginia. Winners are chosen on the elementary, middle, and high school levels.

In addition to White receiving the award, and a cash prize, A.T. Allison Elementary also was presented with $1,000, to be used for STEM projects.

Hartung said there already are ideas for future programs being considered.

As part of Wednesday's announcement, Hartung and White also took time to recognize several of the school's third- and fourth-grade students for their achievements in STEM programs.

Eight students also were presented with scholarships to attend this year's 4-H Camp, to be held in July at Tomlinson Run State Park.