Interview with
Todd Schumacher

What inspired you to become a teacher?

I believe that working with young people keeps me youthful and energized. They are exciting, energetic, and open-minded. Being with them reminds me of the possibilities ahead, as they are our future. Therefore, I consider teaching as the most valuable investment I can make for the generations to come - working with the next generation.

Which subjects do you teach?

I teach design technology within the International Baccalaureate system and elective courses in design and engineering at Cairo American College. Additionally, I'm excited to announce the launch of a new interdisciplinary course titled 'Sustainable Futures,' which will commence next year. In this course, students will address current global challenges using design and innovation thinking.

Design thinking empowers students to tackle real-world issues by fostering empathy, creativity, and critical thinking. Through this process, students not only develop solutions but also cultivate a mindset of continuous improvement, ensuring that their designs evolve to meet changing needs effectively.

How did you find out about The Earth Prize Competition?

A few years ago, while teaching at Uganda International School, I discovered my passion for sustainability and engaging students in developing tangible solutions to real-world issues. I stumbled upon The Earth Prize, an online platform that sparked my excitement. It offered resources and incentives, including prize money, to students for designing solutions to pressing global problems. This discovery was particularly thrilling because it provided tangible opportunities for students to make a real impact.

The prospect of students not only engaging in classroom activities but also creating solutions with the potential for global recognition was incredibly motivating. It shifted the dynamics of the classroom, with students feeling a sense of purpose and belonging to something greater. Witnessing students from both Uganda and Cairo submitting innovative ideas further reinforced the impact of such initiatives on student motivation and engagement.

How has The Earth Prize competition inspired you, challenged you, or helped you achieve your goals?

I feel inspired and driven to help students achieve their goals. It's essential to connect them with resources and teachers who can support their learning. By doing so, we become part of something larger than just our individual classrooms; we join a global movement. I believe that today's youth are the hero generation, capable of solving the environmental and societal challenges we face in this century. It's crucial to make them aware of this broader movement of young people worldwide dedicated to saving our planet.

What value would you say The Earth Prize has brought to your students?

As a teacher, my approach with The Earth Prize has been similar to that of a coach rather than a traditional instructor. I present the students with real-world problems, which they are often keenly aware of but may feel powerless to address. Many young people today experience feelings of climate anxiety and hopelessness when confronted with the daunting challenges our planet faces. Engaging them in The Earth Prize initiative serves as an antidote to these feelings. I emphasize to my students that they are the hero generation, capable of driving positive change. I highlight the value of their ideas and their potential to save the planet, contrasting their fresh perspectives with the perceived limitations of older generations.

In The Earth Prize program, we break students into teams to tackle various issues such as energy, waste, food, water, and advocacy. I strongly believe in the power of collaboration, guiding students through the design thinking process as they work towards solutions. I act as their cheerleader, encouraging them to embrace failure as a natural part of the learning process and to fearlessly explore innovative ideas.

While I haven't utilized mentors extensively this year, I recognize their potential value in providing expertise and guidance, especially in areas beyond my expertise. I plan to incorporate mentorship more actively in future The Earth Prize projects.

What advice would you share with teachers in other schools who are considering participating in the next edition of the competition?

For teachers considering involvement in The Earth Prize, my advice would be to embrace a coaching mindset, empower students to take ownership of their ideas, and foster a culture of collaboration and resilience. Encourage them to explore, experiment, and learn from failures, while also leveraging the support of mentors to enhance their projects.

The Earth Prize offers a fantastic opportunity to connect our students globally, fostering a sense of belonging to something greater. It revitalizes their motivation, empowering them to see themselves as part of the solution rather than mere victims of the problem. The competition provides invaluable resources, such as mentors and inspiring videos featuring changemakers who initiated remarkable endeavors at a young age. These stories serve as powerful examples, showing students that they too can make a difference.

Moreover, The Earth Prize facilitates connections not only between students worldwide but also among teachers from different disciplines. By embracing interdisciplinary thinking, The Earth Prize enables educators to tap into the full potential of their students. It encourages collaboration across subjects, allowing students to explore diverse areas beyond the confines of traditional curriculum.

I'm thrilled to be part of this dynamic movement and eagerly anticipate the positive impact it will have on our students.