Meet IslandWood Class of 2023 alum Rach B., now a Researcher in Residence!
“Because of the tight-knit nature of the IslandWood community, I have been able to stay in touch with many of my peers, mentors, and professors, which has been so helpful in this challenging, new, and exciting world after grad school. It is so nice to know that IslandWood is a community that extends beyond place!”
It’s always inspiring to hear from IslandWood alumni from our graduate program in Education for Environment and Community (EEC) and see how they’re making a difference in the world. Recently, we caught up with 2023 alum, Sam Rubin, who’s bringing the spirit of IslandWood into the heart of San Francisco as the Director of Curriculum and Literacy Lead Teacher at Katherine Michiels School.
Sam isn’t just an administrator, he’s a catalyst for change, weaving the lessons of IslandWood into the urban tapestry of San Francisco education.
Every day, he leads the charge in designing a dynamic curriculum that empowers students to explore their passions, embrace their curiosity, and connect with the world around them. His work is a testament to the fact that place-based learning isn’t confined to forests—it can bloom anywhere. Sam’s words echo his commitment: “I am constantly thinking of conversations I had with my mentor, IslandWood Senior Faculty Dr. Priya Pugh… as I design these lessons with intentionality.”
He likens the project-based and Reggio Emilia inspired nature of the school as “indoors IslandWood,” proving that place-based education can blossom even in the heart of a city. “In working with my colleagues to design a science curriculum, we are working with Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) resources and the Learning in Places framework, resources that we investigated in classes and practicum alike.”
Inspiration continues to flow from unexpected sources. “My cousin, Ethan Tapper, just published his first book “How to Love a Forest.” This book reminds me so much of the readings we engaged with at IslandWood,” highlighting the profound connection between individuals and their ecosystems.
Sam draws strength from his IslandWood cohort, a testament to the program’s lasting impact. “My peers… continue to make me hopeful about the future of education… Knowing that every year, a new and incredible group of land-based, intellectually driven, and justice-oriented educators gets to collaborate and grow at IslandWood allows me to keep doing this work, knowing it will be sustained.”
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Learn more about our graduate program in partnership with the University of Washinton here.
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