Responsible for a thriving school garden and orchard, as well as a solar panel station and wind turbine, Schrade Middle School teacher Paul Reyna has gained recognition across Garland ISD for his environmental and conservation efforts. But his future plans are what is attracting attention from the entire North Texas area. WFAA-TV recently named Reyna the sixth-eighth grade Project Green Eco-Educator Award winner.
This contest spotlights teachers using innovative ideas to inspire students to impact their environment. Reyna was nominated for his outdoor learning center, which will soon include a water feature.
“Hands-on experiences make education more impactful,” he said. “They provide real-world connections that stick with students long after their lessons. The pond I hope to incorporate next year will allow students to harvest their own water samples.”
A panel of judges chose Reyna, as well as an elementary and high school recipient, from numerous entries across the metroplex. A viewer’s choice winner was also named. On April 30, WFAA-TV surprised Reyna in his classroom with a plaque and $1,000 check. The station also recognized him on-air May 4.
“It was a complete surprise,” Reyna commented. “There are a lot of people out there doing wonderful things, and I am honored to be one of them.”
Reyna is not the district’s only teacher to hold the Eco-Educator title. Abbett Elementary School’s Terri Tunnell received this honor last year.