Oct. 28, 2002

CONTACT: Gordon Ovenshine (724) 738-4854; e-mail: gordon.ovenshine@sru.edu

 NEW TEACHER CERTIFICATION IN ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION TO HIGHLIGHT NOV. 12 OPEN HOUSE AT SRU’S NORTH HILLS SITE

            SLIPPERY ROCK, Pa. – Slippery Rock University’s North Hills Site in Wexford will host an open house 4 to 6 p.m. Nov. 12 to spotlight its new teacher certification in environmental education. Education Dean Dr. Jay Hertzog will be on hand to explain the university’s principal certification as well.  

           The North Hills Site is on Route 910, about two miles off Interstate 79.            

           The environmental education courses will be offered beginning in summer or fall 2003, North Hills Site Administrator Connie Bell says.  Representatives from admissions and financial aid will attend the open house.  

           Pennsylvania needs more environmental teachers to teach ecology and help pupils prepare for standardized tests on the environment. The Pennsylvania Department of Education recently passed a measure that will require testing in fourth, sixth and 10^th grades beginning in 2003. Like standardized tests in English and math, students will have to show proficiency to advance to the next grade.

           For more information, call 724-933-8150.

 PN, PgN