Educator Workshop: Washington’s Smoke Season – Integrating the Impact of Air Pollution in K-12 Curriculum
March 18th, 2025 4:30PM -6:30PM
Date & Time: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 | 4:30 – 6:30 PM
Location: Educational Service District 105, 33 S. 2nd Ave., Yakima, WA 98902 | Virtual option available for Seattle-area participants
Clock Hours: 2 WA State Clock Hours Available
Cost: FREE
As wildfires intensify, the impact of smoke and air pollution has become a significant public health concern, particularly for Washington’s most vulnerable communities. This workshop provides educators with evidence-based strategies to integrate air pollution and environmental justice themes into their curriculum.
Facilitated by Ryan Hauck, Global Classroom Director, and Stephanie King, Educator at Granger High School and our 2024 World Educator, this session is inspired by Stephanie’s commitment to advancing environmental education. Matthew Dehr, Meteorologist with Wildland Fire, and Nathan Santo Domingo, Air Resource Specialist with the Washington State Department of Natural Resources, will provide expert insights into the science and impact of wildfire smoke.
Key Discussion Topics:
- The Burden on Vulnerable Communities – Examining the disproportionate health risks of air pollution on marginalized populations and incorporating environmental justice into classroom discussions.
- Wildfire Smoke in Washington’s Valleys – Understanding the intersection of climate change, wildfire frequency, and air quality, with a focus on real-world data and case studies.
- Integrating Air Pollution Across Subjects – Applying interdisciplinary approaches to air quality education in science, social studies, and language arts.
Additional Resources:
All participants will receive a supplemental curriculum resource guide designed to support continued exploration of air pollution’s impact on public health, policy, and the environment.
This workshop is designed for K-12 educators seeking professional development in environmental education, climate science, and social justice. Attendees will receive actionable resources, opportunities to collaborate with fellow educators, and earn clock hours while deepening their understanding of this urgent issue.
Register today by clicking the blue button in the top right corner!
If you have any questions, please reach out to Julianna Patterson, Senior Program Officer for Global Classroom at jpatterson@world-affairs.org.
We look forward to seeing you there!