Joy Alfano

Alfano’s innovative teaching idea, “Buccaneer Enviro-Botics,” will involve supporting a new robotics enrichment program that seeks to enhance student learning in STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) content areas, combined with environmental sustainability. Students will learn through inquiry-based, hands-on activities that will lead to more authentic learning and inspiration to pursue college or a career in environmental science and STEM disciplines. The program is in its beginning stages and was formed out of an intense student demand for a technology club. Alfano chose to integrate environmental stewardship and sustainability with all of her class activities, which students have embraced as an overarching theme. The newly-acquired supplies will allow students to design and create inventions for a better environment. Alfano will build upon student enthusiasm and her experience as an environmental scientist to develop a stellar program that addresses both community and global environmental issues.