From hands-on classroom activities to outdoor learning experiences, Sarasota County Schools continues to inspire students to become thoughtful environmental stewards through its partnership with The Everglades Foundation's Everglades Literacy Program.
During the 2025-2026 school year, 213 teachers from 17 Sarasota County schools participated in Everglades Literacy professional learning, equipping educators with engaging, standards-aligned resources that connect students to Florida's unique ecosystems. The district hosted 16 professional development opportunities, including 12 school-based trainings, one districtwide training, and three outdoor learning experiences at Big Waters Land Trust, Big Cypress National Preserve, and Charlotte Harbor Environmental Center. Since the partnership began, the Everglades Literacy Program has trained 480 teachers from 40 schools throughout Sarasota County.
The program also recognized several Sarasota County schools for their commitment to environmental education through the Everglades Champion Schools initiative.
Gold Level Champion Schools include Atwater Elementary, Brentwood Elementary, Cranberry Elementary, Fruitville Elementary, and Roots Nature & Leadership Academy. Silver Level recognition was earned by Englewood Elementary, Lakeview Elementary, Taylor Ranch Elementary, Toledo Blade Elementary, and Wilkinson Elementary, while Emma E. Booker Elementary and Southside Elementary received Bronze Level recognition for their efforts to integrate Everglades education into their school communities.
The district's impact extends beyond the classroom. More than 200 Everglades Literacy curriculum kits were distributed to teachers during the school year, providing students with opportunities to explore environmental science through hands-on lessons and real-world learning experiences.
Sarasota County Schools' leadership in environmental education was also showcased at The Everglades Foundation's Annual Everglades Teacher Symposium, where Laurie Kemble, Science Lab Teacher at Cranberry Elementary School, was selected as a featured presenter. She shared how she discovered her "why" as an educator and empowered both her students and school community through the Everglades Champion Schools Program before an audience of more than 200 educators from across Florida.
By investing in meaningful professional learning and engaging students in authentic environmental experiences, Sarasota County Schools is helping prepare the next generation of informed citizens who understand the importance of protecting Florida's natural resources for years to come. To help inspire the next generation of Everglades stewards in Sarasota County, learn more about the free Everglades Literacy Program and explore Everglades Champion Schools to see how get schools involved.