PWCSA Community Outreach Earns National Award
The Prince William County Service Authority’s community outreach program was recently recognized by the Universities Council on Water Resources (UCOWR) for its efforts in the classroom and the community during the 2016-17 school year.
Last week, the department received the national organization’s prestigious Education and Public Service Award. This honor is given to educational institutions, individuals, groups, or agencies that have made significant contributions to increased public awareness of water resources development, use, or management covering any one or a combination of the natural, biological and social sciences.
Community Relations & Outreach Manager Karen Takacs and Community Outreach Assistant Audrey Arnold regularly interact with customers and other stakeholders through classroom visits and community events, each customized to educate distinct audiences about the vital role of the Service Authority in Prince William County and the Chesapeake Bay Watershed.
Last summer, the department developed a Pre-K through 12th grade curriculum that aligns with the Virginia Standards of Learning. It includes lesson plans tailored to each grade level that focus on the water cycle, water sources and drinking water and wastewater treatment.
“We loved how you used the beans to represent all the gallons of water we use in a day,” said Kate Naujoks, Coles Elementary School First-Grade Teacher. “We are looking forward to seeing you again next year."
“A lot of research and careful consideration went into the development of our interactive, water-themed curriculum,” said Takacs. “This honor from UCOWR further motivates us to keep expanding the program to reach as many students in Prince William County as we can.”
By the end of the school year, Community Outreach staff expects to have taught approximately 4,000 students.
“The Community Outreach Department has done a great job of testing and implementing a program that is both informative and fun for students and their teachers,” said Service Authority Deputy General Manager Leslie Griffith.
