A Lowell Teacher's Green Lesson

A science teacher at Lowell High School is making waves. She's not just teaching students about nature; she's getting them to roll up their sleeves and help protect it. Right now, her students are caring for baby turtles from local forests. Once they're big enough, the students will set them free. This isn't just about science. It's about showing kids that they can make a difference. The teacher, Dr. Goodhue, has been at Lowell since 2022. But she's been passionate about nature for a long time. She used to study salamanders and crows in her own backyard. Now, she's inspiring her students to do the same. Her work is even more important now. The government is cutting funds for conservation. They're also making changes to the Department of Education. But Dr. Goodhue isn't letting that stop her. Lowell High School is a diverse place. About a third of the students are learning English. They speak 70 different languages. Many of them come from low-income families. Dr. Goodhue's work is a message to these students. It's a message about hope and possibility. Pedro Martinez, the state's education commissioner, knows this well. He grew up in poverty too. He said the award celebrates teachers who help students see a future they might not otherwise imagine. Dr. Goodhue didn't just start teaching about nature. She also started a recycling program at the school. Before she arrived, Lowell High didn't have one. She got her students involved. They found out how much waste the school was producing. Then, they convinced the school to start recycling. This is just one example of how Dr. Goodhue is making a difference. She's not just a local hero, though. She's been named Massachusetts Teacher of the Year. This means she'll travel around the country. She'll talk to other teachers and students. She'll represent Massachusetts. She'll also be in the running for National Teacher of the Year. It's a big deal. But Dr. Goodhue isn't doing it for the awards. She's doing it for her students. She's doing it for the environment. And she's doing it to show that anyone can make a difference.