By GDNR
The Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is once again offering a $1,000 grant to a kindergarten through fifth-grade public or private school teacher in the state who demonstrates exceptional energy and innovation in teaching life sciences.
Science specialists covering these grade levels are also eligible to apply. The grant recipient will be recognized as the DNR Conservation Teacher of the Year.
Applicants must use Georgia’s native animals, plants, and habitats as the context for covering Georgia Standards of Excellence. Although the grant emphasizes life science, cross-curricular teaching is highly encouraged. Preference will be given to teachers who:
- Demonstrate creativity in project design.
- Incorporate outdoor learning experiences.
- Propose projects that could not otherwise be funded.
Teaching may take place in person on school grounds or in an online format.
“The outdoors is an ever-changing, real-world learning lab for a variety of subjects,” said DNR outreach coordinator Linda May. “Students are more engaged and focused as they observe and experience nature firsthand. The result is improved academic performance and well-being.”
The Conservation Teacher of the Year Grant is coordinated by the Wildlife Conservation Section, part of DNR’s Wildlife Resources Division. Through education, research, and management, the Wildlife Conservation Section works to safeguard Georgia’s native diversity of wild animals, plants, and habitats, while also striving to increase public enjoyment of the outdoors. Funding is provided by the section’s friends group, The Environmental Resources Network (TERN).
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: November 3, 2025
- Winner Notified: November 17, 2025
