It's a Fact Jason developed a unique magnet program specializing in enhanced environmental education where high school students can engage in experiential learning.

Recognizing the disconnect that exists between many high school students and the natural world around them, Jason began looking for more tangible outdoor learning opportunities for his classes. In collaboration with his late colleague Tim Walker, as well as the School Council and the Friends of the School group, Jason developed a unique magnet program specializing in enhanced environmental education with a very practical outdoor component.

Jason developed this program to meet Waterloo District School Board’s criteria for a magnet program, and then spearheaded the fundraising and promotion of the program, fostering partnerships with local businesses, universities and colleges in the broader community. In particular, Jason has developed a special link between his classes and the Cambridge based ‘rare Charitable Research Reserve,’ where students undertake fieldwork and contribute to the ongoing site restoration, acquiring practical conservation skills in the process.

This initiative inspires hands-on learning, drawing attention to the lack of curriculum links to this most important of contemporary global issues: the environment. A further benefit of this program is the “Chain of Learning” component, whereby participants transfer their own skills and knowledge to their peers and younger students, raising the standard of ecological literacy across the board.

Beyond his teaching duties, Jason runs a school based ice hockey league, coaches a soccer team, organizes an annual staff-student hockey game, and is currently founding a Naturalist club. He also organizes an annual ecological fieldtrip to Costa Rica for interested students.

In the wider community, Jason delivers presentations about the importance of environmental education to local groups, and serves on the Waterloo Regional district School Board Environmental Advisory Committee. He belongs to the Guelph Field Naturalist General Club and Bird Wing Club, and volunteers with Bird Wing Canada’s bird monitoring projects.

Jason’s energy, enthusiasm, and service for the students, community and environment alike, truly distinguish him as an advocate for local environmental issues!