Alaska Resource Education welcomes Leola Rutherford as new STEM educator

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 10, 2024

ANCHORAGE, Alaska — Alaska Resource Education announces the newest addition to the team, Leola Rutherford, who joins the team as a STEM educator. In this role, Rutherford will deliver ARE’s natural resource curriculum to K-12 classrooms across Alaska, assist with youth programs, and help lead various educational activities such as STEM weeks, field trips, and career camps. Rutherford, a fifth-generation Alaskan, brings an impressive background and a deep commitment to education to the role.

 

Rutherford holds a master of arts in teaching, a master of arts in international relations, and a bachelor of arts in political science. She previously taught sixth grade at Girdwood K-8 School, where she excelled in teaching students about STEM subjects. With more than 20 years of teaching experience, she has demonstrated exceptional dedication to encouraging student growth and promoting a thorough understanding of STEM subjects.

 

“Leola’s extensive teaching experience and strong educational background make her an invaluable addition to our team,” said Ella Ede, executive director of Alaska Resource Education. “Her passion for STEM education and her commitment to Alaska align with ARE’s vision to empower students to be responsible stewards of our natural resources.”

 

Rutherford has long admired ARE’s mission and looks forward to helping the organization focus on teaching science through fun, hands-on learning.

 

For more information about Alaska Resource Education and its programs, please visit www.akresource.org or contact Beki Toussaint at btoussaint@akresource.org.

 

About the Alaska Resource Education

Founded in 1982, Alaska Resource Education is a nonprofit organization dedicated to educating students and teachers about Alaska’s natural resources through hands-on lessons and innovative curriculum. Covering topics such as mining, energy, oil and gas, renewable energy, economics, and forestry, ARE's programs meet Alaska State Science Standards and align with common core standards. Beyond the classroom, ARE offers scholarships, STEM camps, and career exploration programs. Funded through state, corporate, and individual donations, ARE aims to inspire and prepare the next generation of Alaskans for careers in the resource industry. To learn more, visit ARE’s website.

 

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