Warsaw Community High School

WARSAW, IN -  Warsaw Community High School (WCHS) teacher Emily Gough received the Joe Wright Recognition of Excellence Award from the Environmental Education Association of Indiana (EEAI). Gough was honored during the EEAI annual conference where she also presented to educators statewide.

The Joe Wright Recognition of Excellence Award is one of the most respected honors in Indiana environmental education. The award was established to acknowledge outstanding achievement by educators, naturalists, project coordinators and natural resource professionals dedicated to advancing environmental learning. In 1995, the award was renamed in recognition of Joe Wright, former science consultant for the Indiana Department of Education, who sparked statewide enthusiasm for conservation education beginning in 1968. Wright was known for encouraging educators and providing resources whenever needed. The award continues to honor individuals who demonstrate significant current achievements in environmental education and recipients are not required to be EEAI members.

Gough has made a lasting impact through her leadership of the Envirothon program at WCHS, where her student teams regularly compete as state winners and finalists. Her approach combines hands-on environmental study, field experiences and real-world application, inspiring students to pursue careers in environmental science and stewardship.

WCHS Principal Troy Akers shared, “Congratulations to Mrs. Emily Gough on this tremendous Award.  We are so proud of her, and she is absolutely at the top of her craft.  Her love of science and students is the perfect recipe for success.  Her success with the Environmental Club demonstrates how she always goes the extra mile for her students. Trips to State and National competitions have been the pinnacle of success. Thank you, Mrs. Gough, and again, there couldn't be a better teacher in Indiana for this prestigious Award!  We are PROUD OF YOU!”

Warsaw Community Schools congratulates Mrs. Gough on this significant statewide recognition and celebrates the meaningful contributions she continues to make for students and the community.

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