June 2026 Teacher Training

Urban Sustainability Solutions was proud to run our June Teacher Training, bringing together over 20 educators from across Raleigh, Durham, and Orange County for a week of learning, collaboration, and program development. This year’s cohort included a strong mix of new participants and returning veteran teachers, allowing both groups to build skills while strengthening the overall impact of our programming.

Teachers were divided into two tracks to better support their experience levels. The new teacher cohort received foundational training led by NC State Extension Agent Mitch Woodward, focusing on water quality, rain gardens, and cistern systems. Through a combination of instruction and hands-on learning, participants deepened their understanding of stormwater management and its role in protecting local ecosystems. At the conclusion of the training, teachers were evaluated and successfully earned their Rain Garden Certification through NC Cooperative Extension. They also visited the Walnut Creek Wetland Center, where they saw these practices in action and learned about the history and restoration of the wetland.

Meanwhile, our veteran teachers worked closely with Rachel Owens, who leads our Durham and Orange County student programs, to evaluate and refine the current curriculum. Through collaborative discussions and shared classroom experiences, the group identified what has been most effective in engaging students and where improvements can be made. Together, they explored new teaching strategies, hands-on approaches, and ways to better support student learning outcomes, ensuring the program continues to evolve and meet student needs.