Embedded Files
Rebecca Heckman, 2024
👋 Meet Rebecca.
👋 Meet Rebecca.
I’m a longtime K–12 educator, community connector, and author passionate about making learning relevant, local, and grounded in nature. Whether I’m leading a training, building a student-led initiative, or digging in the dirt with kids and native plants, you’ll find me working with a purpose and wandering with intention. → Learn More About Me
I believe the best learning happens when we live it.
I help educators, teams, and community leaders design learning that’s rooted in place, driven by curiosity, and built for real impact.
I love helping others turn inspiration into implementation. If you’re ready to bring new energy to your teaching or programs, let’s create something that matters.
Today, my principal announced that I have been selected as the 2026 MI Science Teachers Association (MSTA) Middle School Science Teacher of the Year!
I was hopeful for this recognition because it shines a light on something I believe with my whole heart. Schools are stronger when we work with our communities, not separate from them.
Anything I accomplish happens because of the incredible people and partners who stand beside our students and teachers. Families who volunteer supplies and time. Inland Lakes staff who collaborate and support new ideas. Administration who say yes to the messy, hands-on work of science learning. Community mentors who give their time and groups like Northeast Michigan Great Lakes Stewardship Initiative, MAEOE,Tip of the Mitt, CFRE, Greenwood Foundation, Project Dragonfly, Headwaters TU, Cornell K-12, and so many others who strengthen teacher projects through grants, coaching, and genuine partnership.
I am proud of the work we are doing together and grateful for everyone who helps create opportunities for kids to learn in real places with real purpose. Recognition like this helps highlight what is possible when a whole community invests in young scientists.
Feeling thankful today and excited for what this attention can do for place-based stewardship.
🧭 What I Do
🧭 What I Do
Here are some quick highlights of how I support schools, educators, and community learning:
Professional Development & Workshops
Hands-on, high-energy sessions that get ideas flowingCurriculum Design & Consulting
Support for place-based, project-based, and interdisciplinary learningStudent & Community Projects
From trout tracking to school gardens to cultural storytelling initiatives
📘 Book + Resources
📘 Book + Resources
Check out my book Leaning in Context, grab free tools like my Community Needs Survey, and explore other wonderful resources.
Page updated
Report abuse