Congratulations to teacher Jessica Cambell and Mount Madonna School (MMS) on receiving the Governor’s Environmental and Economic Leadership Award (GEELA), which celebrates the environmental education work of MMS fifth grade students for the last nine years!
MMS is one of twelve California organizations – and the only school – recognized with a 2016 GEELA, the state’s highest environmental honor, in a ceremony held January 19 in Sacramento.
“I am extremely honored to be a part of Mount Madonna School,” commented Cambell, “and to have worked with amazing teachers like Nate Rockhold and [the late] Sri Gyan James McCaughan, to create an award-winning program that allows students to find passion in using their voice to create positive change within the world!”
The annual program is administered by the California Environmental Protection Agency, in partnership with the Natural Resources Agency, the Department of Food and Agriculture, the State Transportation Agency, the Business, Consumer Services, and Housing Agency, the Government Operations Agency, the Labor and Workforce Development Agency, and the Health and Human Services Agency.
The GEELA program recognizes individuals, organizations, and businesses that have demonstrated exceptional leadership and made notable, voluntary contributions in conserving California’s precious resources, protecting and enhancing its environment, building public-private partnerships and strengthening the state’s economy.
“This year’s GEELA recipients are demonstrating the creativity and collaboration that make California a leader in protecting our environment,” said CalEPA Secretary Matthew Rodriquez. “They stand out as examples for how sustainable practices go hand in hand with economic and organizational success.”
Following the ceremony Cambell was also presented with a certificate from the California State Assembly, recognizing MMS’ GEELA achievement presented from Assemblyman Mark Stone, representative of the 29th Assembly District.
“Congratulations to you both,” commented MMS parent Jeff Powers in a social media post directed to Cambell and Rockhold, upon learning of the GEELA recognition. “Your ongoing dedication to positive teaching, independent thinking and personal creativity brings successful empowerment to all of your students. Thank you Jessica and Nate for so beautifully expressing and fulfilling Sri’s vision.”