Educator Spotlight: Monique Mckoy

Monique Mckoy, a Schools in Parks Specialist with NC State Parks, recently completed her NC Environmental Education Certification. Monique works with local teachers to develop programming for them at the park and gives them resources to take back to their classroom. She also assists with interpretation and education programs at the park including field trips and public programming.

Monique says her favorite part of the certification was the networking and programs. “I enjoyed getting out and meeting other educators and gaining new strategies and ideas that would make me a better educator. I also enjoyed the diversity of programming offered through the certification program. There were so many topics to learn about and unique ways to bring them back to my site.”

When asked about an experience in the program that stood out for her, she says it’s hard to choose one experience. “I feel they all taught me something new and allowed me to have a unique experience that I otherwise would not have had. The teaching aspect of the certification was really impactful for me. When I first started, it was a little nerve-racking. A lot of mistakes were made, but as time has gone by, I've learned from those mistakes and become more comfortable. Mistakes will always be made but now I have enough knowledge to figure out solutions.”

For her community partnership project, Monique worked with the Bladen County Public Library to create monthly displays on different environmental topics. “Each month I created a reading list with books that people could check out at the library to learn a little bit more about the different topics. I shared facts and information as well as provided handouts like coloring sheets, puzzles or activities for people to take. To further establish a connection to the selected topic, I participated in story times at the library or hosted programs here at the park. We are even planning to continue these lists and collaborating on programs in the future.”

Monique says the certification program changed her approach to teaching. “Participating in the certification taught me to appreciate the "non scripted" moments that often happen during programs. It's perfectly OK to stop and let the attention go to something cool that's happening in nature. It's the reason why most of us environmental educators are so passionate!”

The program also changed the way Monique views environmental issues. “I always try to keep an open mind and listen to all sides of an issue. The most important thing when teaching about such issues is to provide listeners with that same mindset. We are not to lead people to think something specific but to give them all the necessary information for them to form their own opinion.”