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Royal Oak High School social studies teacher John Worrell is embarking on an extraordinary summer journey. Selected from a pool of talented educators across the U.S. and Canada, Worrell has been awarded the Grosvenor teaching fellowship. This rare opportunity will see him aboard the National Geographic Explorer ship in the North Atlantic and Arctic Oceans.
Worrell said, "I am humbled and honored to have been selected to work with Lindblad Expeditions and the National Geographic Society to help continue their commitment to K-12 education. I look forward to bringing the experiences and knowledge I have gained to my students, the school, and the community."
Worrell's expedition begins on July 29, departing for Iceland and returning on August 11. During his time aboard the National Geographic Explorer, he will circumnavigate Iceland, immersing himself in its natural wonders and cultural history. This experience aligns with his passion for studying natural history, cultural history, and geography.
Following the expedition, Worrell will embark on a two-year fellowship with the National Geographic Society, all while continuing his teaching duties at Royal Oak High School. His goal is to bring his experiences back to the classroom, nurturing the next generation of culturally competent global citizens with a conservation mindset.
"Guiding the next generation to learn and discover the complexities of the natural and cultural world is essential work, and I am honored to continue this commitment to the students in our community.
The Grosvenor Teacher Fellowship, awarded jointly by Lindblad Expeditions and the National Geographic Society, emphasizes the importance of shaping future stewards of the planet. This year's recipients, including Worrell, will participate in expeditions across diverse ecosystems worldwide, fostering a deeper understanding of the world and inspiring environmental stewardship in students for years to come.