Media
For Immediate Release
March 21, 2012
High school students make a splash in Alberta’s water future
Students and teachers from high schools around the province gathered in the Kananaskis this past weekend for Inside Education’s Navigate 2012: A Water Literacy Youth Summit. The unique three-day conference gave students the opportunity to explore Alberta’s most critical water issues from different perspectives and encouraged them to consider the role they play in the future of this vital resource.
“The Summit was designed to advance water literacy in Alberta to a new level,” says Kathryn Wagner, co-chair of the Navigate 2012. “Students and teachers were able to actually get involved with the complex issues by meeting experts, having in depth conversations with their peers and learning how to make a meaningful impact in their homes, schools and communities.”
Students and teachers participated in a variety of sessions to give them insight into the challenges and opportunities facing Alberta’s water by examining water sources, users, stakeholders and conservation. Highlights of the Summit include a case study of water use in Alberta’s oil sands, an opportunity to meet with potential employers and a keynote speech from Olympic gold medalist and community leader, Adam Kreek.
Teams consisting of two teachers and four students from 20 high schools across the province were selected to attend the Summit with a full scholarship. Each team has started a Water Literacy Project that will directly impact their school or community in order to make a valuable contribution to water stewardship and education.
“We look forward to seeing how Navigate has inspired the students to share their knowledge and passion for water,” says Steve McIsaac, Executive Director of Inside Education. “They will continue to engage other students with what they’ve learned and are well on their way to becoming Alberta’s future water leaders.”
Navigate 2012 coincides with Canadian Water Week, March 19-25, a week created to raise the profile and understanding of water around Canada.
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Interviews with participating teachers and students from your area can be arranged. High-resolution photos of the teams will be available. For more information please contact:
Bekki Hall
Communications Manager, Inside Education
work: 780-421-1497
mobile: 780-298-1720
email
About Inside Education
Inside Education is a charitable education society that has provided Canadian teachers and students with unique experiences related to our natural resources and environment for over 26 years. These experiences are designed to help students understand the multiple perspectives around key issues and empower them to become engaged and informed stewards. Inside Education is a proud recipient of ECO Canada’s 2012 Environmental Employers of the Year www.insideeducation.ca
