CARROLLTON, GA – A Carrollton Elementary School third grade teacher who just a year ago was recognized as a Georgia STEM Scholar has joined the ranks of other exceptional teachers across the country who have earned National Geographic Educator Certification.

The professional development program recognizes pre-K-12 teachers committed to inspiring the next generation of explorers, conservationists, and changemakers. 

“These educators are part of a powerful movement to make the world a better place by empowering students to be informed decision-makers equipped to solve meaningful challenges in their communities and beyond,” states a description of the program on the National Geographic website. “They don’t just teach students about the world – they teach them how to change it.”

Teachers who join the program participate in an in-person or online workshop to hone skills in National Geographic’s educational mission: Teaching kids about the world and how it works, empowering them to succeed and to make it a better place. They then develop and implement two activities that apply the skills gained in Phase 1 and incorporate a National Geographic resource. The program culminates with a capstone project that tells the story of student learning, demonstrates professional growth, and inspires other educators.

“Creating educational experiences for children has been a passion since I was a teenager working at the Children’s Museum in Indianapolis,” said Cox.

Cox has served on the STEM committee for CES since its inception. Serving as the chair of the STEM Operational Team, she meets with representatives from every department and grade in the elementary school throughout the year. Cox is also a science ambassador for the state which makes her a primary contact for teachers looking to make the science standards come alive in their classroom. Starting next school year, she will return to her first love, teaching science exclusively in the school’s STEM lab.

“Mrs. Cox goes above and beyond, each day, in her endeavor to inspire our youngest learners with a passion for STEM,” said CES Principal Kylie Carroll. “She is a lifelong learner who seeks to continuously gain knowledge and better her craft, and she conveys her love for learning to her students and colleagues.”