New Jersey is the first state in the country to make climate change a part of the public school curriculum. Rutgers University hosted a workshop Thursday to help educators integrate the topic across the curriculum. The workshop included hands-on and interactive sessions with other teachers.

“These tools are designed to create an environment in innovation and new ideas, prepare our students to meet the reality of our shared climate challenges, and to develop the next generation of climate leaders,” said first lady Tammy Murphy.

Sarah Ruppert, a fine arts teacher at Delaware Valley Regional High School in Hunterdon County, said her students are eager to know more. “I do see students taking on and feeling challenged by climate change, from just wondering how to help to wondering what evidence and where it comes from.”

“We know that sea level rises in New Jersey twice as faster as other places across the nation. We know that 84% of kids want to learn about climate change education. … We know 89% of students have reported that they have stress anxiety from climate change and are thinking about it overtime,” said Edward Cohen, assistant director of the Center for Math, Science, Computer Education at Rutgers.

Major funding for Peril and Promise is provided by Dr. P. Roy and Diana T. Vagelos with additional funding from The Marc Haas Foundation, Sue and Edgar Wachenheim III, and the Cheryl and Philip Milstein Family.

Original article at NJ Spotlight News