Crystal Roberts
Minto, New Brunswick
WHAT THE NOMINATORS SAID
Passionate about land- and place-based learning, Crystal is always keen to help empower other teachers to integrate outdoor learning into their curriculum.
Crystal not only works to connect educators within her school district, but her willingness to take initiative extends as well to her local community, where she has supported a number of experiential learning initiatives in collaboration with local and provincial organizations.
IN HER OWN WORDS
One of my favourite moments as an educator is seeing a learner be inspired—that light-bulb moment where they connect and bring their own ideas and passion forward. When I was first introduced to Project WILD, I had that light-bulb moment for myself, and I was so excited to share it with others. It has been such a joy for me to play, discuss and learn with other educators.
My dad was my biggest mentor when it came to outdoor skills. We camped with the very basics, and I was always allowed to help with set-up, cooking and leave-no-trace principles. He also taught me to fish in summer and winter. I learned a lot from him about being safe in the wild and about how to work with nature to make the best of a situation, which has followed me well into my adult life.
WILD Educator Award
Established in 2015, this award honours an exceptional WILD Education facilitator or instructor who has provided innovative and meaningful experiences for youth that focus on wildlife and the building of a conservation ethic. The CWF WILD Education program includes Project WILD and Below Zero.