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The Kentucky Association for Environmental Education (KAEE) held its annual Excellence in Environmental Education Awards Gala on Saturday, June 6 at the Tates Creek Ballroom in Lexington. 

KAEE recognized the outstanding achievements of individuals, organizations, agencies, community efforts, schools and businesses in the field of environmental education.  To be eligible for an award, each nominee demonstrated exemplary service to the field of environmental education in Kentucky. Many nominees develop innovative curriculum for both teachers and students; research and apply environmental best management practices; provide education experiences for learners; work towards legislation in the name of environmental education; and provide support for other educators in the field.  In total, nine awards were given to individuals and organizations from across the state. 

Once local recipient was Jennifer Beach of Fort Wright. Becoming trained as a facilitator in June 2014, she attended and presented at the 2014 KAEE conference and began the process to become a State Certified Environmental Educator. Jennifer serves as a children’s programmer at the Erlanger Branch of the Kenton County Library, the busiest library branch in the state. In her capacity as a children’s programmer, Jennifer inspires the many children that attend her programs to explore science, technology, engineering, art and math, all while using environmental education as a focus. Jennifer has been recognized nationally for her contributions to STEM (by being invited to an inaugural conference later this year) and her dedication to her work.

Staff report/Photo provided

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