Christine Ritsma, a Stratford District Secondary School teacher, has won a prestigious award, along with the high school’s eco club.
At their annual general meeting, Upper Thames River Conservation Authority’s announced Ritsma and the student club have won the inspiration award.
Awards were presented to local community members, of all ages, who are making an environmental difference.
Ritsma launched and teaches the Green Industries course for Grades 10 – 12. Students develop skills in the environmental field, such as forestry and agriculture.
Ritsma also began the SDSS Eco Club, which raises awareness regarding environmental issues and advocates for positive change within the school and community.
The board of directors award was presented to Patti Donnelly, an environmental champion that has volunteered with the conservation authority for more than 20 years.
The Kayla Berger stewardship award was bestowed to Brian and Elizabeth Wheeler after the couple donated 85-acres of woodland and valley along Fish Creek to the conservation authority last March.
