We here at GCC are inspired by a group of students from Elgin High School who are putting on a National Biodiversity Teach-in. The Teach-in is "virtual," meaning the students are hosting a series of webinars with professionals from all over the country September 22 through 26, 2014. This project, "by students, for students," aims at raising awareness about the importance of biodiversity. http://nationalbiodiversityteachin.com/ Biodiversity...it's a term that's not used very much in the mass media, but it's so important to our planet and our own species' future. These kids recognize that, and want to help by putting on a virtual "teach-in" for other students at other schools. Their goal is for 10,000 students across the country to participate.

Their website says the students were inspired by the story of Martha, the last known living Passenger Pigeon who died on September 1st, 1914. The National Biodiversity Teach-In marks the 100th anniversary of Martha’s death.

More than 15 well-known national and local speakers will cover topics like:

Oaks and Biodiversity
The Trouble with Balloons
Batty for Bats
Biodiversity and Resilience
Marine Mammals

So here's your Connect to Action mission for this month...if you are a teacher or know a teacher, pass these links on to them and encourage them to learn more:

Website: http://nationalbiodiversityteachin.com/ Email: biodiversityteachin@gmail.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MissMarthaThePassengerPigeon?ref=bookmarks Twitter: https://twitter.com/MissMartha1914