Orca Conservation Utilizing Technology in the Pacific Northwest

OVERVIEW

This resource guide was developed to supplement our WAC Global Connections Club session, "Orca Conservation Utilizing Technology in the Pacific Northwest," and is designed to support educators and students in exploring orca conservation through the lens of youth leadership, technology, and environmental stewardship, locally and globally. Centered on the critically endangered Southern Resident Killer Whales, the guide connects local ecological issues to broader themes of civic engagement, innovation, and responsibility. It aligns with environmental science, social studies, and civic learning frameworks, encouraging students to examine how individuals and communities can respond to urgent environmental challenges.

The guide introduces featured youth changemaker Arihana Shah, an 8th-grade student from Redmond, WA, documentary filmmaker, and founder of Change in Current. Through her research and documentary work, Arihana highlights the extinction crisis facing the Southern Resident orcas—now numbering only 74 individuals in the Puget Sound. Learning objectives and key terms help build foundational knowledge around orca ecology, conservation efforts, and the role of technology and storytelling in environmental advocacy.

Educators will find a curated collection of multimedia resources, including videos, research articles, and youth-led initiatives, that showcase how technology and creative media can be leveraged for conservation. The guide also explores actionable pathways for student engagement, such as community awareness campaigns, ethical fundraising, and partnerships with conservation organizations. By uplifting youth voices and emphasizing real-world impact, this guide empowers students to see themselves as active participants in protecting their local environment.

This resource is part of Global Classroom's For a Better World series, which highlights youth making meaningful social, civic, and environmental contributions in their communities. We are proud to feature Arihana Shah as the first of two youth changemakers this school year and to support ongoing efforts to protect the Southern Resident Killer Whales of the Pacific Northwest.

Click HERE to explore the interactive guide.

NOTE: Before entering into "Fullscreen" mode, scroll to your first hyperlink and click on it. A pop-up will appear saying “You are leaving Sway.” To ensure all hyperlinks work, check the box labeled “Trust all links in this Sway for this session.”

If you prefer a downloadable version, please click “Download Attachment” below to access the PDF.