Teacher Melissa Cook embarks on global expedition for hands-on professional learning
information from Highline Public Schools
A local elementary teacher is set to explore the Arctic with National Geographic and Lindblad Expeditions. Melissa Cook from Hazel Valley Elementary School in Highline Public Schools has been selected as a 2018 Lindblad Expeditions and National Geographic Grosvenor Teacher Fellow in recognition of her commitment to geographic education.
On May 30, Melissa will embark on an 11-day expedition to the Arctic Svalbard on board the National Geographic Explorer. She will gain hands-on field experience and use state-of-the-art exploration technology alongside National Geographic photographers, naturalists and explorers. Melissa plans to bring the knowledge she gains on the trip back to her classroom and students.
“This fellowship has already captured my students’ imagination and enthusiasm. They are eagerly reading and learning everything they can about the Arctic. My students are so excited to ‘send me off’ to collect data that will answer their questions about the region,” said Melissa. “The Arctic seemed so remote to them, but now they are personally and permanently connected.”
Melissa, a National Board Certified Teacher, teaches second grade at Hazel Valley. She has traveled extensively in the United States and abroad, and draws from those experiences in her classroom whenever possible. Melissa’s passion is for her students to develop a lifelong love of learning. She integrates her students’ questions, curiosity and insights into every lesson, and encourages students to discover answers for themselves through observation and meaningful discussion.
This year marks the 12th year of the Grosvenor Teacher Fellow Program, established to honor former National Geographic Society Chairman Gilbert M. Grosvenor’s lifetime commitment to geographic education. The program began with two Fellows in 2007 and has grown each year. This year, 40 educators from the United States and Canada have been named a Fellow.
“Grosvenor Teacher Fellows are an integral part of National Geographic’s work to achieve a planet in balance,” said Mike Ulica, interim president and CEO of the National Geographic Society. “Educators like these Fellows ensure that students are equipped with geographic knowledge and global awareness, empowering the next generation to create solutions for a healthier and more sustainable future.”
“These are exemplary educators who play a vital role in shaping and inspiring the future stewards of our planet. We are committed to taking them to some of the world’s most remote and pristine places to help fuel their passion to share knowledge, and the world, with their students,” stated Sven Lindblad, CEO and president of Lindblad Expeditions.
