For the first time since the awards began in 1992, SeaWorld and Busch Gardens have recognized an Outstanding Environmental Educator. Presented in conjunction with the National Science Teachers Association, this award is designed to recognize a teacher who is achieving long-term impact on their students, fellow educators, school and community, and is making significant strides in advancing the ever-growing field of environmental education.

A dedicated educator and spirited science advocate, Charlene Dindo from Fairhope K-1 Center in Fairhope, AL was selected by NSTA representatives as the 2000 Outstanding Environmental Educator. Charlene's zeal for teaching science is evidenced by the eagerness and enthusiasm of her students as they explore and study their nearby Mobil Bay ecosystem.

Equipping kids as young as five and six with flexcams, microscopes and field guides, Charlene expects much out of her students. "Too often people think that young students aren't ready for the challenges that science might offer," Charlene says, "but these students defy that. They're conducting experiments and learning concepts now that they might not otherwise experience until a much older age." Charlene's confidence in these young scientists has had tremendous impact. Viewing themselves as true scientists, her students have developed an awareness and protective attitude for not only Mobile Bay, but for coastal ecosystems everywhere.

As the first annual recipient of this award, Charlene received $5,000 and an all-expense paid trip to NSTA's 2000 national convention in Orlando, Florida, where she was recognized at a special awards ceremony.