Communications and Environmental Education
DIVISION: Office of the Commissioner
GENERAL PHONE NUMBER: (609) 984-9802
FAX NUMBER: (609) 292-3198
WEB SITE
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION:
The office's environmental and public education professionals assist with the development, coordination, promotion and distribution of the department’s priority and comprehensive educational resources and opportunities.
Examples of the department’s environmental education resources include curriculum supplemental materials, teacher training opportunities, student and youth programs, community and volunteer projects, field trip opportunities and public events, educational literature, exhibits, contests and awards and web-based information and activities. To learn more about these resources visit SEEDS, the “State Environmental Education Directory Site.”
Environmental education staff are also responsible for administering the work of the New Jersey Commission on Environmental Education and Interagency Work Group. In addition, the state's annual celebration of Earth Day and Environmental Education Week are coordinated and promoted by this office.
Audiences served include schools, colleges and universities; environmental and civic organizations; community, religious and youth groups; environmental commissions; parks, nature centers and museums; local government; businesses and corporations; and, families and youth.
The purpose of the office’s environmental education efforts, as adopted from the National Environmental Education Advisory Council, is:
“Environmental education is a learning process (for all ages) that increases people’s knowledge and awareness about the environment and associated challenges, develops the necessary skills and expertise to address these challenges, and fosters attitudes, motivations and commitments to make informed decisions and take responsible actions.”
MONETARY ASSISTANCE PROVIDED:
None
PERMITTING RESPONSIBILITIES:
None
PUBLICATIONS AVAILABLE:
New Jersey Environmental Primer 2007
New Jersey Environmental Primer 2006 (Spanish Edition)
Environmental Education in New Jersey: A Plan of Action
SEEDS Promotional Flyer
Teaching the Environment – DEP Curriculum Resources for Educators |
