Teacher Ecology Camp 2023 - A High School Teacher’s Experience

As a Biology teacher in Hillsborough County I look forward to the Teacher Ecology Camp every year. I have honestly lost track of how many years I have attended. It’s either 4 or 5. 

I enjoy seeing familiar faces every year and I always feel welcome. Jeanne, Bryan, and Laura are amazing. 

I especially enjoyed this year’s camp as I learned so much more than before. The boat rides were great  as well as all of the fossil activities. Another one of my favorite years was going to Egmont Key. These camps have really made me love to learn about the history of Florida and their inhabitants. I am not much of a history buff, but this program really makes me want to learn more. It has also been so rewarding to actually learn and see the birds of Florida up close. I have always loved birds and moving to Florida 12 years ago did not disappoint.  

I have recommended this camp to many and share the activities we do on Facebook in hopes to educate others. My teacher friends are always in awe of what I post. 

I do not do this camp for PD points. I do it because I love to learn and I love to be outdoors. It is difficult finding free camps like this for teachers, so I know we all appreciate it. 

I want to thank St. Pete Audubon for all of the amazing books I have gotten over the years and for this opportunity year after year. I look forward to many more. 

Nicole Richards-Works
Alonso High School
Pre-IB Biology Teacher (9th grade)