Waukegan High School environmental sciences teacher Ms. Kate Krischke-Grobart has been selected as a national recipient of the Presidential Innovation Award for Environmental Educators from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Ms. Krischke, who teaches environmental science, AP environmental science, and dual credit geology at the WHS-Washington Campus, is one of just 13 educators across the United States recognized by the EPA, in partnership with the White House Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ), for a commitment to environmental education and environmental stewardship. 

According to the EPA, recipients of the Presidential Innovation Award for Environmental Educators, “demonstrated leadership by integrating environmental education into multiple subjects and using topics such as climate change, waste management, water quality, wildlife conservation, STEM education, and school gardens.” Ms. Krischke was officially announced as a winner last week, and will be formally recognized at a ceremony in Washington D.C. next month. 

“I’m still a little taken aback by the announcement. I was so thrilled and excited that I literally jumped for joy,” said Ms. Krischke, who will begin her 14th year at WHS this fall, where she also serves as the sponsor of the school’s Environmental Club. 

When announcing its award recipients, the EPA extensively highlighted the work Ms. Krischke does with students to bring awareness to environmental issues, as well as a number of hands-on projects, field trips and environmental initiatives undertaken by her students. Ms. Krischke’s classes also work extensively with local and regional organizations, such as Lake Forest Open Lands Association, and the Waukegan Park District.

In his letter of recommendation, WHS-Washington Campus Principal Dan Hill praised Ms. Krischke for her leadership, particularly, her spearheading the planning and design of a planned outdoor classroom on campus. He also complemented her ability to create innovative lesson plans. 

“Mrs. Krischke has phenomenal teaching practices. Even during the pandemic and the move to remote teaching, she planned and executed lessons that engaged her students and went beyond the walls of the classroom into the actual environment of study,” Mr. Hill wrote.

For Ms. Krischke, eco-consciousness is something  she is passionate about, and she hopes her students leave her classroom knowing they can do their part to make the planet a better place. 

“Everyone deserves clean air, clean water and clean soil, especially when it impacts your day to day life and overall health. I hope I can instill knowledge in my students and motivate them to be stewards for the environment,” said Ms. Krischke.