In order to ensure the health and safety of their participants, staff, and instructors, the Wildlife Leadership Academy in Union County is changing the format of their first two field schools-- PA Bucktails-- on white-tailed deer-- and PA Bass-- focusing on warm-water fisheries-- to virtual field school experiences.
Applications received by May 19 will be given preference.
“Leadership is a quality we teach and take to heart at the Academy and while we are disappointed that we can’t meet in person – we are aiming to adapt, lead and still provide an exceptional educational experience for our students this year,” said Executive Director, Michele Kittell.
“As it began to look less likely that we were going to be able to gather, we knew that cancelling our field schools would not be an option,” said Kittell. “We knew that we still needed to engage these young leaders because of their excitement for our natural resources, their leadership abilities, and their motivation to make a difference in their communities as Conservation Ambassadors.”
A limited number of spots are available at the PA Bucktails (June 16-20) and Bass (June 23-27) virtual field schools.
The Academy has re-open their application process to teens ages 14+, including graduating seniors, to engage at these virtual field schools and be equipped to be Conservation Ambassadors in their home communities.
Because of the virtual nature, applicants are encouraged to apply from beyond Pennsylvania’s borders.
As Conservation Ambassadors, students can receive a letter of a recommendation for college applications; certification of community service work, and a certificate designating them as Conservation Ambassadors.
Students are also eligible to apply to return to the Academy tuition free the following year, compete for college scholarships, and join an Academy Alumni Network of wildlife, fisheries, and conservation professionals.
Carter W., a high school Academy Alum shared why he was interested in engaging with the Academy Virtual Field School experience, “I hope to use what I learn through the virtual field school experience as a foundation for teaching my community how to be more environmental friendly, and for promoting a healthy relationship with the natural world.”
In addition he felt that this unique way of learning would mean a lot to him. He said, “I am a graduating senior planning to work in the field of environmental conservation. The knowledge and leadership I gain from the virtual field school experience will be beneficial to me in every aspect of my future. Giving back to my community and the natural world will always be my goal I strive to achieve with the education I receive from the Wildlife Leadership Academy!”
The mission of the Wildlife Leadership Academy is to engage and empower high school age youth to become Conservation Ambassadors to ensure a sustained wildlife, fisheries and natural resource legacy for future generations.
The Academy, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, is a cooperative initiative involving state agencies and conservation organizations.
Interested applicants can learn more and apply at the Academy’s Virtual Field School Experience. Questions should be directed to Executive Director, Michele Kittell by sending an email to: mkittell@wildlifeleadershipacademy.org or call 570-245-8518.
You can also connect with the Academy visiting their Wildlife Leadership Academy website or Facebook page.
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[Posted: May 14, 2020] PA Environment Digest
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