At TECO, our commitment to environmental stewardship goes beyond powering communities. It includes educating and inspiring the next generation to protect the natural world around them. One way we do this is through our ongoing partnership with the Guy Harvey Foundation to bring marine science and conservation education to life in local classrooms.
Deer Park Elementary in Tampa, a Tampa Electric-adopted school, has fully embraced the Guy Harvey Foundation’s curriculum under the creative leadership of art teacher Jenni Martin. This school year, 823 first through fifth graders participated in an immersive series of lessons that explored marine ecosystems, pollution and conservation — all through the lens of art and science.
All their efforts culminated in a vibrant coral reef art installation in the school’s media center. The reef (pictured below) is made entirely from reclaimed materials to visually communicate a vital message: we can protect our oceans by rethinking how we use and dispose of plastics.
As part of the TECO and Guy Harvey Foundation partnership, 83 Deer Park students also attended a field trip to the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, where they explored marine life up close and learned how they can make a difference in protecting aquatic ecosystems.
“We are incredibly grateful for our strong partnership with TECO and the meaningful impact we are making together in our communities,” said Guy Harvey Foundation Director of Stewardship & Donor Relations Amanda Martin. “Your support has been instrumental in the success of the Conservation Educator Trainings and associated field trips across Hillsborough, Pinellas Polk and Pasco counties. These professional development opportunities for teachers, along with immersive field trips for students, are creating lasting ripple effects on Florida’s west coast — helping to inspire the next generation of ocean stewards.”
We’re proud to be part of a program that so vividly demonstrates how education, creativity and environmental awareness can come together to empower the next generation of conservation leaders.
