In a special 50th anniversary edition, the 2020 NOAA Education Accomplishments Report highlights the important role that education has played in meeting NOAA’s mission throughout the decades. In addition to celebrating long-term accomplishments, the report explores the many ways in which NOAA Education adapted to the important challenges presented throughout 2020.
Madur Dwarakanath is wearing a volunteer vest and smiling at an older couple. He is telling them about shells and rocks on display. The older man is touching and looking at one of the seashells. The older woman looks on, smiling. (Image credit: Casey Henley/Broken Banjo Photograph)
“This year’s accomplishments report includes a mix of old and new,” said Louisa Koch, Director of NOAA Education. To celebrate NOAA’s heritage, the report highlights education programs that have been operating for a decade or longer. It also includes a special focus on NOAA's new and ongoing efforts to break down the barriers that many Black, Indigenous, and other people of color face in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and math. “We recognize that there is a lot to be done, and we will continue to champion the ongoing efforts of our education programs to create a more equitable and inclusive space,” said Koch.
Finally, NOAA Education shares how educators rose to the challenge of virtual education in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. As the world navigated through these unexpected changes, the NOAA Education community quickly adjusted their programs to ensure that students continued their educational experiences unhindered from home.
“In these extraordinary times, we deeply appreciate the contributions of our partners and the people we serve. Without innovative organizations, talented students, and passionate educators, we would not be able to accomplish so much in support of NOAA’s mission,” said Koch.
The accomplishments in this report were submitted by members of the NOAA Education Council. The report describes progress toward the goals in the NOAA Education Strategic Plan. To learn more, check out NOAA Education accomplishments.
