Juliann Shockley, environmental science teacher at Heritage High School, earned the Virginia Environmental Education Certification from the Virginia Association for Environmental Education. This accomplishment reflects both her dedication to her students and her commitment to environmental stewardship.
Shockley’s journey to this certification began with a desire to learn more about environmental science and education. “I’m a lifelong learner,” she shared. “When I discovered the Virginia Association for Environmental Education (VAEE) certification, I knew it would offer a fresh perspective on topics I already teach and hopefully introduce new ones to bring into the classroom.”
The certification process was both rigorous and rewarding, including more than 200 hours of coursework across six modules. It included online learning focused on environmental literacy, hands-on workshops, 75 hours of self-directed exploration across Virginia’s geologic regions, and 40 hours of lesson planning and teaching.
One of its most impactful components was the capstone project, which gave Shockley the opportunity to bring her students into the heart of environmental action. Partnering with the Town of Leesburg, they planted trees on the Heritage campus and organized volunteer efforts to distribute free trees to local residents. “It was a chance for students to connect with their community and see the impact of their efforts firsthand,” she said. “It also opened doors for future partnerships and gave students a sense of ownership in their environment.”
Shockley describes herself as a career switcher. Previously, as an environmental consultant, Shockley conducted environmental impact assessments, site evaluations and remediation projects for both private and military clients. “Those experiences gave me real-world examples to share with students and helped me introduce them to a wide range of STEM careers,” she explained.
Now in her 17th year of teaching – all at Heritage High School – Shockley has taught Earth Science, Environmental Science, AP Environmental Science, and, new this year, the IB Environmental Systems and Societies course. Her teaching philosophy is grounded in the idea that environmental science is essential for every student. “We are all part of nature,” she said. “Understanding our relationship with the environment helps students develop problem-solving skills and recognize the impact of their daily choices. I want to empower them to become responsible individuals who care about protecting the planet, not just for themselves, but for generations to come.”
Beyond the classroom, Shockley continues to build connections with local environmental organizations and educators, hoping to expand opportunities for her students to engage with their community and natural surroundings. “This certification helped me reflect on my teaching, explore new places in Virginia, and meet people who share the same passion,” she says. “I’m excited to see where it leads and how it can help my students grow as learners and leaders.”
*This article was updated on Sept. 30, 2025.