Wonuola Yomi-Odedeyi, Experiential Learning Lead for the Halton District School Board, has received the
Environmental Award from the Ontario Secondary School Teachers' Federation (OSSTF/FEESO). This award recognizes outstanding contributions to environmental education and sustainability within the educational community.
According to the OSSTF, “this award celebrates individuals or groups who have demonstrated exceptional leadership in promoting environmental awareness, fostering student engagement and implementing innovative programs that address environmental challenges. Recipients of this award have shown a deep commitment to inspiring future generations to become environmental stewards and creating a more sustainable future for all.”
Based on the nomination submitted for consideration, Yomi-Odedeyi has, as the Experiential Learning Lead, “led the expansion of experiential learning initiatives nurturing students’ curiosity, empowerment and sense of identity safety by illuminating the relevance of their communities and futures within the curriculum.”
The nomination highlights two of Yomi-Odedeyi accomplishments:
- Environmental Leadership - Garden to Table project: By embedding themes such as climate food literacy, climate action, equity and food sustainability, more than 100 classrooms were provided opportunities to create community gardens at several schools. Yomi-Odedeyi utilized community partnerships with various organizations such as the Royal Botanical Gardens, the Halton Environmental Network and Generation Green to bring these gardens to fruition.
- Chicken Hatching Project: Dozens of classrooms were given the opportunity and resources to incubate fertilized eggs and care for chicks, with the goal of building compassion and knowledge of local food systems. Farms provided guidance on assisting hatchlings and daily caretaking protocols. Students researched where their chicks would live after the program and gained first-hand insights into food systems.
Yomi-Odedeyi says this award is a testament to the importance of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) in education.
“Receiving this award is an immense honor and a testament to the power of experiential learning in empowering students and teachers alike. I am deeply humbled by the recognition of our collective efforts to cultivate curiosity, connection and environmental stewardship through hands-on experiences in the classroom and beyond,” she says. “It is my firm belief that embedding experiential learning opportunities within the curriculum, especially with the focus on STEM and technological education, is crucial.
"These experiences not only foster a deeper understanding of STEM concepts but also equip students with essential skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving and collaboration. I am grateful for the opportunity to champion this approach, and this award reaffirms our commitment to continue advocating for experiential learning as a vital component of a well-rounded education.”
