FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ASHBURN, VA (September 30, 2025)—The South Carolina Association of School Administrators (SCASA), the Recycled Materials Association (ReMA), and national nonprofit JASON Learning are proud to announce the winners of the first-ever South Carolina Recycling Poster Contest, an innovative statewide initiative designed to inspire students to explore the power of recycling and its role in building a sustainable future.

The 2024-25 contest challenged South Carolina students in grades K-12 to create a poster advertisement centered on the three guiding principles of recycling: Sustainable, Resilient, and Essential, reflecting ReMA’s refreshed branding and mission. Students submitted entries individually or in teams of two and were encouraged to incorporate real-world examples learned through research to demonstrate how recycling is transforming communities and creating opportunity.

“We are grateful for our partnership with JASON Learning and ReMA in creating meaningful learning experiences that connect students to industries they may never have considered. This contest both introduced students to South Carolina’s thriving recycling industry and provided an opportunity for students to earn statewide recognition while developing crucial research skills. It is exactly the kind of authentic learning experience that prepares our students for success.“

—Dr. Quincie Moore, Executive Director, South Carolina Association of School Administrators (SCASA)

In total, 57 posters were submitted by 68 students across 13 school districts, representing a strong launch for this inaugural year. The submissions were divided by grade bands and judged in two rounds—first by SCASA, ReMA, and JASON Learning staff, and then by recycling industry experts who assessed each finalist for industry accuracy and creativity.

South Carolina is a national leader in the recycling industry, home to more than 300 recycling companies that support 42,700 jobs and generate $13.6 billion in annual economic impact. Recycling plays a vital role in the state’s manufacturing, logistics, and environmental services sectors and is recognized as a key driver of middle-skill job growth and innovation. 

However, as the industry continues to expand, there is a growing need to build awareness and understanding of recycling among students, educators, and communities. Programs like this contest help fill that gap—connecting classroom learning to real-world career pathways and supporting the future of South Carolina’s green economy.

“ReMA was proud to introduce the recycled materials industry to young people across the state through this contest, and the winning entries demonstrate that the future of the recycled materials workforce is bright. We were thrilled to see South Carolina embrace this contest and showcase how recycling is resilient, essential and sustainable.“

—Cheryl Coleman, Senior Vice President, The Recycled Materials Association (ReMA)

Contest winners received:

• Cash prize for the overall student winner and their teacher
• A custom banner for display at their school
• An unveiling ceremony at the SCASA office with family and school leadership
• Recognition at SCASA’s statewide i3 Convention
• Their poster featured on JASON.org

“ReMA was proud to introduce the recycled materials industry to young people across the state through this contest, and the winning entries demonstrate that the future of the recycled materials workforce is bright. We were thrilled to see South Carolina embrace this contest and showcase how recycling is resilient, essential and sustainable.“

—Cheryl Coleman, Senior Vice President, The Recycled Materials Association (ReMA)†

2024-25 South Carolina Recycling Poster Contest Winners

Overall Contest Winner:

• Winner: Arianna Weeks, 11th grade, Clover High School
• Teacher: Preethi Ramasamy

Grades 3-5:

• Winner: Kennedy McCaslan and Vatarus Tillman, 5th grade, John C. Calhoun Elementary School
• Teacher: Renee McCaslan

Grades 6-8:

• Winner: Alicia Bella Marie Budney, 6th grade, Green Charter School–Simpsonville
• Teacher: Christine Jacobs

Grades 9-12:

• Winner: Lindsay Riemer, 11th grade, Clover High School
• Teacher: Preethi Ramasamy

Additionally, 11 entries earned Honorable Mention status, and all student participants received certificates recognizing their efforts. 

To view the winning posters and learn more about the contest, visit: https://jason.org/2025-sc-rema-jason-recycling-contest/.

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About JASON Learning

JASON Learning is an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit transforming science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education through real-world STEM curricula, project-based learning experiences for PreK-12 students, and high-quality professional development for teachers. JASON’s mission is to “inspire and educate students everywhere through real science and exploration.” To learn more about JASON, visit https://jason.org/.

JASON Media Contact: Jenna Davis, jdavis@jason.org.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ASHBURN, VA (September 15, 2025)—JASON Learning, a leader in K-12 STEM education, today announced a new partnership with local non-profit Grand Horizons to launch the “STEM BUNDLE” initiative. This collaboration will deliver a combination of books and headphones to schools, libraries, after-school programs, and Boys & Girls Clubs throughout Washington, D.C. and Maryland, with the goal of providing critical educational resources directly to students and communities.

The STEM Bundle is designed to ensure that high-quality, engaging educational materials are accessible to all students, regardless of their zip code or socioeconomic background. JASON Learning’s proven curriculum, which focuses on real-world, project-based learning, will be paired with the essential tools needed for students to fully engage with the content.

“At JASON Learning, our mission is to inspire and educate students everywhere through real science and exploration. Partnering with Grand Horizons allows us to put our resources directly into the hands of students in the DC and Maryland area who need them most. We believe that keeping the right educational resources in our communities is a vital step toward creating a more equitable and prepared future workforce.”

—Dr. Eleanor Smalley, President and CEO of JASON Learning

The STEM Bundle  initiative underscores the importance of local partnerships in addressing educational disparities. By working with Grand Horizons, JASON Learning is able to leverage a community-focused approach to distribution, ensuring that the books and headphones reach a diverse range of students, from those in traditional school settings to those in community-based programs.

“We are thrilled to join forces with JASON Learning on this impactful project. Our shared commitment to empowering the community through education makes this a perfect partnership. The STEM BUNDLE will not only provide valuable learning tools but also show our young people that their community is invested in their success.”

—Brian Burns, Founder of Grand Horizons

The program is set to be rolled out across various locations in the coming months. Both organizations are confident that the STEM BUNDLE will make a significant impact by fostering a deeper interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics among the region’s youth.
†

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About JASON Learning

JASON Learning is an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit transforming science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education through real-world STEM curricula, project-based learning experiences for PreK-12 students, and high-quality professional development for teachers. JASON’s mission is to “inspire and educate students everywhere through real science and exploration.” To learn more about JASON, visit https://jason.org/.

JASON Media Contact: Jenna Davis, jdavis@jason.org.

About Grand Horizons

Grand Horizons, Inc, is a non-profit organization committed to empowering, collaborating with partnerships and providing innovative approaches to educate the next generation of youth within the communities. Grand Horizons is dedicated to addressing the unique challenges along with amplifying the STEM needs to the community. Grand Horizons is passionate about building bridges,  creating sustainable solutions that uplift individuals and create long-lasting positive impacts for career development of the next generation.  

Grand Horizons Media Contact: Ezekiel Crampton, grandhorizonsteam@gmail.com

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ASHBURN, VA (September 9, 2025)—JASON Learning and the Recycled Materials Association (ReMA) are excited to launch the nationwide 2025–26 Youth Recycling Contest, which will empower students across the country to become environmental leaders through research, creativity, and real-world problem-solving.

This annual contest raises awareness about sustainability by encouraging students to explore the impact of recycling on their communities and the planet. By connecting classrooms with industry partners, the contest fosters meaningful learning experiences that inspire lasting environmental action.

The 2025 contest theme, “Recycling Batteries: Hidden Risk, Uncovered Reward,” challenges students to identify a recycled commodity and research the dangers batteries pose to recycling processes. Participants will then develop a Public Service Announcement (PSA) video or poster to educate their communities on how individuals can safely prepare recyclables for processing and support recycling efforts.

The 2024 contest received an inspiring 456 submissions from 618 students, demonstrating the enthusiasm and commitment of youth to environmental stewardship. Explore the complete list of winners, finalists, and honorable mentions from the 2024–25 ReMA/JASON Youth Recycling Contest at: https://jason.org/2024-rema-jason-recycling-contest/. 

“ReMA is proud to again be inspiring future recycling leaders through this year’s Youth Recycling Contest,” said ReMA President Robin Wiener. “This year’s topic is so important to not only the recycled materials industry but for public health and safety in every community. We invite all teachers to integrate this contest into their classrooms and engage their students with a real-world sustainability challenge.”

—Robin Wiener, President, Recycled Materials Association (ReMA)

Participants in the Youth Recycling Contest have the chance to earn recognition and rewards for their hard work and creativity. Those who receive an Honorable Mention will be awarded a special certificate celebrating their achievement. Finalists will receive a special certificate, a banner to proudly display at their school, and a gift card of $100 for both the student and their educator. The Grand Prize Winner will earn a special certificate, a school banner, a gift card for the student and their educator of $250, and an unforgettable trip to Las Vegas, NV, in April for the ReMA 2026 Convention & Exposition. The grand prize-winning student can bring along one teacher and one parent or guardian to share in this exciting experience.

“The Youth Recycling Contest continues to be a powerful platform where students turn curiosity into action. This year’s focus on battery recycling highlights an urgent environmental challenge, and we’re proud to partner with ReMA to inspire the next generation of environmental leaders who will help protect our planet.”

—Eleanor Smalley, President and CEO of JASON Learning

To assist participants, ReMA and JASON Learning will host two informative webinars:
Thursday, October 2, 2025: 6:30 pm ET: Register here
Tuesday, November 4, 2025: 4:00 pm ET: Register here

The contest is open to all students living in the United States and Canada enrolled in grades K-12 during the 2024-25 school year, and there is no cost to participate. Students can enter the contest as individuals or as a team of two individuals. All entries must be submitted by December 12, 2025, at 11:59pm ET. 

Students, educators, and community members can learn more about the contest, guidelines, and submission deadlines by visiting:
https://jason.org/2025-rema-jason-recycling-contest/. 
†

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About JASON Learning

JASON Learning is an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit transforming science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education through real-world STEM curricula, project-based learning experiences for PreK-12 students, and high-quality professional development for teachers. JASON’s mission is to “inspire and educate students everywhere through real science and exploration.” To learn more about JASON, visit https://jason.org/.

JASON Media Contact: Jenna Davis, jdavis@jason.org.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ASHBURN, VA (September 3, 2025) — JASON Learning is proud to announce that it has been named a winner in multiple categories of the 2025 Educators Pick Best of STEM® Awards, the only awards program created by educators, for educators, and judged by a qualified panel of STEM professionals. This national recognition highlights JASON’s continued leadership in STEM education and its commitment to empowering students and teachers with cutting-edge, real-world learning experiences.

Operated in partnership with the National Association of Biology Teachers (NABT) and MCH Strategic Data, the Educators Pick Best of STEM® Awards celebrate the most innovative, trusted, and distinctive products and services in STEM education. Thousands of STEM educators from across the country selected this year’s winners, spotlighting resources that are transforming teaching and learning in today’s classrooms.

“These awards are especially meaningful because they come directly from the educators we serve. To be recognized by teachers who know what it takes to inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, and problem-solvers is a tremendous honor.”

—Dr. Eleanor Smalley, President and CEO of JASON Learning

2025 Award-Winning Programs

Winner: Best of STEM Supplemental Videos and Activities: Pre-K to Grade 2

JASON Learning x Playwatch Kids – Blending joyful storytelling with inclusive, standards-aligned learning, this early childhood program nurtures STEM habits of mind through play-based videos, songs, and hands-on activities. Designed for Pre-K–2 learners, it reflects diverse identities and supports all educators in delivering high-quality STEM experiences. Explore the Collection.

“Education and entertainment should go hand in hand for today’s children. At Playwatch and JASON Learning, our mission goes beyond teaching—we strive to create an engaging, inspiring atmosphere where learning feels exciting. This recognition is a true testament to the incredible educators who work every day to ensure every child can see themselves as the hero of their own story.”

—Joshua Bullock, Co-Founder: Playwatch Kids, Boom! Animation, Kingdomland

Winner: Best of STEM Freebies for Environmental Science

ReMA Recycling Collection – Created with the Recycled Materials Association (ReMA), this free K–12 resource collection features STEM activities, interactive games, and design challenges that spotlight sustainability and careers in recycling. It’s a classroom-ready toolkit that brings environmental literacy and real-world problem-solving to life—at no cost to educators. Explore the ReMA Recycling Collection

Winner: Best of STEM for Environmental Science

EcoVillage – In this student-led content, upper elementary learners build a sustainable town from the ground up, making decisions about businesses, natural resources, and community needs. Created in partnership with Greenacres Foundation and Indian Hill Schools in Ohio, EcoVillage blends environmental science with entrepreneurship and civics, fostering systems thinking, creativity, and a lifelong stewardship mindset. Explore EcoVillage.

Finalist: Trailblazer: Middle School STEM – Grades 4-8

Pathways to Your Future: STEM Career Exploration – This flexible, project-based curriculum created in partnership with Alexandria City Public Schools in Virginia introduces middle school students to in-demand careers across industries like cybersecurity, life sciences, and emerging tech. With diverse role models and real-world relevance, it fills the critical gap in early, equitable STEM career exploration—empowering students to connect their interests to future pathways. Explore Pathways to Your Future.

“I’m thrilled that JASON Learning has received this award and recognition. It is a direct result of the collaboration and partnership that inspires us to continue our mission of creating innovative and authentic content that’s engaging for students. I’m immensely proud of our team and grateful for the partners who shared our passion and brought this vision to life.”

—Lori Bedsole, Director of Content Development at JASON Learning

Building on Success

Since 2022, JASON Learning has proudly earned seven Best of STEM Awards, recognizing excellence across early learning, career exploration, environmental science, and professional development:

• 2022: JASON Early Childhood STEM Program in the “Trailblazer: Early Learning (PreK-6)” category
• 2022: NCSU Design & Pitch Challenges in STEM in the “Social Impact: Developing Citizen Scientists” category
• 2023: Pathways to Success: Career Exploration in the “CTE Champions: Career Exploration” category
• 2023: VIMS: Beyond the Water Bottle Microplastic Pollution in the “Social Impact Award: Developing Citizen Scientists” category
• 2024: Building a Greater Digital Future in the “CTE Champion: STEM” category
• 2024: STEM Ready: Seeking Sustainable Energy Solutions in the “Best of STEM: Environmental Science” category
• 2024: The JASON Learning Academy in the “Bridging the Gap: Professional Development” category
• 2024: (Finalist) for Trustworthy AI: Computer Vision Essentials in the “Best Use of AI for Teaching & Learning” category

With four new honors in 2025, JASON Learning continues to raise the bar in STEM education—offering equitable, real-world learning experiences that prepare today’s students for tomorrow’s opportunities. These awards reflect the voices of educators nationwide and affirm JASON’s mission to make STEM relevant, inclusive, and transformative for all learners.

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About JASON Learning

JASON Learning is an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit transforming science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education through real-world STEM curricula, project-based learning experiences for PreK-12 students, and high-quality professional development for teachers. JASON’s mission is to “inspire and educate students everywhere through real science and exploration.” To learn more about JASON, visit https://jason.org/.

JASON Media Contact: Jenna Davis, jdavis@jason.org.

The post JASON Learning Secures Three Wins at the 2025 Educators’ Pick Best of STEM® Awards appeared first on JASON Learning.

Why Course Completion Certificates Matter

Many states require educators to submit proof of professional development to renew their teaching licenses. The JASON Learning Academy, JASON’s award-winning asynchronous training platform with courses with on-demand support, offers educators a straightforward way to access high-quality STEM-focused courses and earn certificates that may qualify for license renewal credit, depending on your state’s requirements.

Whether you’ve completed a course and need official documentation or are exploring courses that align with your PD goals, JASON has you covered.

How It Works

• Browse the catalog of courses available through the JASON Learning Academy to see which align with your professional development needs. You can find these under the “Getting Started with JASON” curriculum collection or at https://lms.jason.org/. 
• Complete the course(s) at your own pace.
• If your state requires proof of completion for license renewal, you can purchase official Course Completion Certificates for any courses you have successfully finished from https://shop.jason.org/collections/course-completion-certificates. 
• Keep these certificates as documentation when submitting your license renewal paperwork.

Our Certificate Offerings

We provide certificates for a diverse range of courses designed to deepen STEM knowledge and teaching skills, including:

• Design and Pitch Challenges in STEM
• Sensors are Essential
• Fabricating Composite Products
• Enhancing with Peripherals
• Details Make All the Difference
• Cultivating the Digital Thread
• Beyond the Water Bottle: Minimizing Microplastic Pollution
• ReMA Recycling Educator
• ReMA Recycling Contest
• Foundations of Early Childhood STEM Instruction
• Grades K-4 ReMA Content
• Grades 5-8 ReMA Content
• Grades 9-12 ReMA Content
• JASON Overview Training
• Early Childhood STEM

Have Questions?

If you’re unsure about whether a certificate meets your state’s requirements or need help with purchasing, our team is here to help. Contact us anytime at PD@jason.org for support and guidance on navigating professional development with JASON Learning.

By offering these certificates, we hope to support educators as they continue to grow professionally and bring engaging STEM learning experiences into their classrooms. Explore the JASON Learning Academy today and take the next step in your professional journey!

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ASHBURN, VA (August 8, 2025) — JASON Learning is proud to announce the continued investment from The Ball Foundation to expand access to its cutting-edge STEM education programs, with a strategic focus on advanced manufacturing and recycling—two vital industries driving sustainability and innovation nationwide.

This renewed investment from the Ball Foundation will allow JASON to scale high-impact programming that prepares students for real-world careers in recycling, circular economy, and manufacturing technologies. By partnering with school districts and local educators, JASON will equip the next generation with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in these essential fields.

“The Ball Foundation is committed to supporting the global communities where we live and work by investing in educational initiatives driving STEM education. Our education partners drive opportunity, support access and foster interest in recycling and advanced manufacturing. We are excited to continue working with JASON Learning.”

—Jessica Leary, Executive Director, The Ball Foundation

The grant builds on a successful first year of collaboration. During the 2024–2025 school year, JASON Learning was integrated into Mansfield ISD, Humble ISD, Dayton ISD, and Texas City ISD, reaching over 98,000 students and 6,600 educators. With Ball’s continued support, JASON will deepen its reach in Texas and expand to new communities nationwide, with a projected total impact of over 266,000 students and 18,000 educators in the 2025–2026 school year.

At the heart of this expansion is JASON’s recycling and advanced manufacturing curriculum, which features industry-specific case studies, project-based learning, diverse role model videos, and hands-on activities that highlight real careers, real data, and real impact. Educators receive robust, tailored professional development to help bring this content to life in the classroom and spark student interest in sustainable, high-tech fields.

“Ball’s support is accelerating our ability to connect students with the real-world relevance of recycling and advanced manufacturing. These are real pathways to well-paying, meaningful careers.”

—Dr. Eleanor Smalley, President and CEO of JASON Learning

This August, two in-person professional development sessions will kick off the new school year with educators from across Ball-supported districts. These workshops will focus on introducing the districts to JASON Learning and integrating JASON’s recycling and manufacturing content into core instruction.

The Ball Foundation’s partnership with JASON exemplifies how corporate philanthropy can drive local workforce readiness and inspire a new generation to take part in building a sustainable future.

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About JASON Learning

JASON Learning is an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit transforming science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education through real-world STEM curricula, project-based learning experiences for PreK-12 students, and high-quality professional development for teachers. JASON’s mission is to “inspire and educate students everywhere through real science and exploration.” To learn more about JASON, visit https://jason.org/.

JASON Media Contact: Jenna Davis, jdavis@jason.org.

About The Ball Foundation

Since 2011, The Ball Foundation, the philanthropic extension of Ball Corporation, has amplified Ball’s organizational values through community partnerships. Today, The Ball Foundation supports over 15 community organizations dedicated to recycling education and infrastructure; science, technology, engineering and mathematics in manufacturing; and disaster relief and preparedness. In partnership with our communities, The Ball Foundation is creating a world free from waste – one action at a time. For more information, visit The Ball Foundation – Ball. 

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Oakwood Schools in Ohio is making waves with its growing STEM culture, earning the Emerging-level National STEM Certification from AASA and JASON Learning. This certification recognizes school districts that are purposefully developing STEM learning ecosystems that empower both students and educators to explore, connect, and grow.

The Emerging designation is the first of three tiers in the AASA/JASON National STEM Certification Framework. It celebrates districts that are laying the groundwork for strong STEM culture and instruction, with clear goals and promising practices already taking shape.

The review team found compelling evidence of Oakwood’s strategic effort to build a culture where STEM learning thrives—from early classroom practices to community-wide engagement. A standout example is the district’s STEM Speaker Series, which brings caregivers and professionals into classrooms to share real-world experiences. This initiative not only teaches students about STEM careers—it makes them feel accessible and exciting, particularly for middle and high school learners beginning to explore their own futures.

“A key part of this success came through the creation of STEM Champion roles at each of our schools this year,” said Superintendent Dr. Neil Gupta. “These positions, made possible through the support of our Board of Education, have helped drive building-level leadership and alignment in STEM programming.”

Under the leadership of Dr. Kimbe Lange, Director of Curriculum, Assessment, and Instruction, the STEM Champions include:

• Courtney Schacherer – Smith Elementary
• Jodi Allen – Lange School
• Scott Gowdy – Harman School
• Rachel Keyes – Oakwood Junior High
• Katie Poppa – Oakwood High School

While Oakwood has built a strong foundation, the district is eager to expand its efforts to reach students starting in Kindergarten and continuing through graduation. The review team also commended Oakwood’s attention to academic rigor and employability skills, such as teamwork, communication, and problem-solving, which are critical elements for success in both college and careers.

“I’m incredibly grateful to our staff for dedicating themselves to this work and to our Board of Education for supporting bold ideas and creating the space for innovation to grow. Together, we are laying the foundation for something lasting, something that will benefit generations of Oakwood students.” 

—Dr. Neil Gupta, Superintendent of Oakwood Schools

This certification marks an exciting milestone in Oakwood’s STEM journey. With continued focus and collaboration, the district is well on its way to creating a vertically aligned, K–12 STEM ecosystem that connects students to real-world learning and future-ready opportunities.

Congratulations to Oakwood Schools on this well-earned recognition.

Learn more about the AASA/JASON STEM Certification process at https://jason.org/stem-certification-2/.

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We are thrilled to announce that Noble Local Schools in Sarahsville, Ohio, has made history as the first district in the nation to earn the “Empowering” level of the AASA/JASON STEM Certification!

While many districts are building strong STEM pathways, the second-tier “Empowering” designation recognizes something deeper. It reflects a district-wide commitment to ensuring that high-quality STEM learning is not just present but consistent across all grade levels. In these districts, STEM is not a standalone program or initiative but a mindset, a shared language, and a way of thinking that shapes everything from classroom instruction to strategic planning.

At Noble Local, students are encouraged to ask questions, solve problems, collaborate, and explore their interests through STEM from an early age. Teachers are supported through professional learning and leadership opportunities. The district is continuously improving its approach to equity, access, and community involvement. And perhaps most notably, this work is not driven by one person or department—it’s embraced across all levels of the organization and deeply rooted in the community.

The STEM Certification review team noted how remarkably aligned Noble Local is around its STEM vision. Such strong alignment is the result of years of thoughtful leadership, collaborative planning, and a shared belief in the power of STEM to prepare students for the future. This certification is a testament to how a rural district can lead boldly, innovate meaningfully, and empower every student to thrive.

“Being the first school in the nation to earn the empowering designation is a testament to the years of work at Noble Local on behalf of kids. We are so proud to receive this designation and share this as a community success, from our school staff, administrators, board of education, to our well over 100 community partners that make the Noble engine run. We are proud to continue this great work for our students so that they may go forth and continue to make their #NobleImpact wherever their future takes them. Through STEM #KidsWin!!”

—Justin Denius, Superintendent of Noble Local Schools

As the first district to reach the Empowering level, Noble Local is setting a powerful example for others across the country. We are proud to recognize their leadership and look forward to seeing what comes next on their journey.

Congratulations to Noble Local Schools for this well-deserved recognition!

Learn more about the AASA/JASON STEM Certification process at https://jason.org/stem-certification-2/.

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Co-written by Jude Kesl and Jenna Davis

This June, the JASON Argonauts embarked on an unforgettable adventure into the heart of the Pacific Northwest. The 2025 Argonaut Expedition, “Argos for Earth: Designing the Future of Conservation,” took students and educators beyond the classroom and into the field to explore how emerging technologies and fieldwork are shaping the future of conservation science.

From June 20-26, the Argonauts, led by Jude Kesl, Argonaut Expedition Leader, and The Bug Chicks (Kristie and Jessica), immersed themselves in hands-on research, design thinking, and place-based problem-solving in Oregon’s mountains, coasts, and forests. 

Here’s a look back at a week packed with science, innovation, and discovery.

Day One: A Change of Course and Ocean Discoveries

The expedition began with smooth travel, and every flight arrived on time! Shortly after the group touched down, a call from the captain of Whale Research EcoExcursions brought some classic field science unpredictability: inclement weather was on the way.

Seizing the moment, the Argonauts hustled down the coast to Depoe Bay, Oregon, and set out on an afternoon whale-watching trip. Though whales remained elusive, the group was treated to sightings of sea lions, otters, and seabirds.

Day Two: Rain, Resilience, and Wildlife

True to the region’s reputation, day two dawned gray, rainy, and windy. Undeterred, the Argonauts braved the elements to go birdwatching. Their efforts were rewarded with sightings of ospreys, a kingfisher, cedar waxwings, a common merganser, and more.

Afterward, the team raced up the coast to Cannon Beach to try tide pooling before the tide returned. Despite the wind pushing waves in faster than expected, they spotted puffins, jellyfish, mussels, sea sacks, California beach fleas, and more before retreating, soaked but smiling.

Day Three: Technology Meets Ecology

Sunday brought a full day of exploration and learning. After a morning of team-building and reflection, the Argonauts dove into the transformative power of artificial intelligence (AI) in conservation. They examined how AI and large language models are reshaping the future of science.

The Argonauts then ventured into the field to set up camera traps and acoustic monitors to collect wildlife data, experiencing firsthand how scientists use technology to uncover the hidden lives of creatures we can’t always see with the naked eye. 

That evening, they met Jason Holmberg, Director of WildMe at Conservation X Labs, whose journey from chemical engineering to developing AI-powered conservation tools inspired everyone to think big about how AI and technology are resharing scientific research. Jason is also a STEM role model in our “Image Identifier” Design & Pitch Challenge in STEM. He took us through the ups and downs of developing this powerful tool, providing insights into both the exciting possibilities and the challenges that come with blending technology and environmental science.

Day Four: Into the Forest and Back to Basics

The Argonauts have had full and exciting days, starting each morning with early hikes to observe birds, immerse themselves in nature, and explore tools that support different types of conservation ( environmental, nature, wildlife, biodiversity). These tools include iNaturalist, Merlin, eBird, trail cameras, acoustic monitors, and simple things like nets, buckets, pH paper, etc.

Monday’s focus was the intersection of old and new conservation practices. The Argonauts traveled into Mount Hood National Forest with Teri Lysak, the Wolverine Tracking Project Coordinator for the non-profit Cascadia Wild. Teri taught the Argonauts how to set up a trail camera and collect data from it. She also led a brief orienteering class, challenging the group to use a compass and paper map to locate the camera trap, reinforcing the value of traditional navigation skills when modern technology like GPS or batteries fails.

The camera site was located off-trail, offering many of the Argonauts their first experience navigating off the beaten path. They had the opportunity to review images captured by the trail camera and learn more about Cascadia Wild’s conservation goals.

In the afternoon, the group made a brief trip to the snow line on Mount Hood before returning to their home base. That evening, the Argonauts met Wren Shiaffler, a local entrepreneur with a vision to launch a food waste composting venture. Inspired by her mission, the Argonauts were given a Design Thinking Challenge Sprint to brainstorm and prototype solutions to help her achieve her goals.

The day also included an ambitious attempt to collect and analyze freshwater samples, though time constraints limited the activity. Still, the Argonauts made a valiant effort.

Final Day: Sharing Science with the Public

One of the most exciting traditions of every recent Argonaut Expedition is the culminating event, when our amazing teams of Argonauts share their experiences, research, discoveries, and practice their science communication skills in a public setting. This year, we were thrilled to have a truly special audience: 15 Park Rangers at the Bonneville Dam in Oregon.

Our Argonauts showcased an impressive range of knowledge, diving into how real scientific research is conducted in the field. They explored the use and importance of tools like nets, boats, camera traps, acoustic monitors, and AI-powered platforms like iNaturalist and eBird—all of which play a vital role in helping us understand our rapidly changing planet.

The presentations were not only informative but deeply inspiring. The Student Argonauts expressed their passion for contributing to a more sustainable future and learned about potential paths in science careers and academic fields. The Teacher Argonauts gained fresh ideas for integrating authentic field science techniques into their classrooms.

Here are the incredible topics our Argonauts presented:

• Ferns in the Pacific Northwest vs. the Mid-Atlantic Region
  • Carla Shaw (London City, OH) & Marissa Bossard (Fairfax, VA)

• Slugs
  • Miles Munique (Mercer) & Onyx Crawford (Nadaburg, AZ)

• Declining Bird Populations
  • Ericka Martin (Nadaburg, AZ), Addy Schmitz (Fairfax, VA), Blake Mitchell (Doddridge, WV) & Ryan Bower (London City, OH)

• Water Quality & Macroinvertebrates
  • Jenni McClannahan (Mercer, WV) & Judi Cozart (Portsmouth, VA)

• Amphipods and Jellyfish: A Special Relationship
  • Finn Claudill (Mercer), Myla Stith (Portsmouth, VA), & Miranda Mitchell (Doddridge, WV)

Looking Ahead

The 2025 Argonaut Expedition was a powerful reminder of what happens when curiosity meets opportunity. From stormy coastlines to AI innovations, the Argonauts embraced every challenge and left inspired to design a more sustainable future.

To learn more about the Argonaut Program and future expeditions, visit https://jason.org/argonauts/. 

The post Argos for Earth: Designing the Future of Conservation appeared first on JASON Learning.

The 2025 Argos for Earth: Designing the Future of Conservation expedition runs June 20–26, and thanks to Patagonia’s generosity, our Argonauts are hitting the field with some incredible gear. 

Here’s what they donated:

• 1 backpack
• 3 vests
• 3 pairs of pants
• 4 raincoats
• 1 insulated hooded jacket
• 2 t-shirts
• 8 fleece jackets/pullovers

The Patagonia Old Town team spent April and May thoughtfully collecting gently used items for the expedition, fully laundering and prepping each piece before shipping it to Oregon. Once the Argonauts arrived at their housing, they were able to sort through the gear, and everyone found something (or several things!) to use during the expedition.

Even better? Most of this gear comes from Patagonia’s “Worn Wear” program, which keeps great items out of landfills and puts them directly into the hands of young explorers.

Alexandra Swezey from Patagonia Old Town shared:

“The donation of previously used products for us is essentially the closing of the loop between the purchase and our Ironclad Guarantee. Still usable stuff, but no longer usable for that specific customer. A win-win!”

This is exactly the kind of partnership we value—where sustainability, community, and education all intersect.

This kind of community support means everything to us. It’s not just gear—it’s one less barrier between students, teachers, and an unforgettable learning experience. When Argonauts are dry, warm, and ready to go, they can focus on what matters: exploring nature, asking big questions, and learning from scientists in the field.

Big thanks to Alex and the Patagonia Old Town team for making this possible. Your support helped ensure our Argonauts were ready for adventure and showed them what real-world environmental responsibility looks like in action!

The post Gear That Gives Back: Patagonia Old Town Supports 2025 Argonauts appeared first on JASON Learning.