Old Trail Teacher Selected for Prestigious John Bing Scholarship

This summer, Erin McNamara, Old Trail’s Director of Experiential & Nature-Based Learning, embarked on a remarkable professional journey to Aotearoa, New Zealand—an opportunity made possible by the John Bing Scholarship from the Institute for Global Learning (IGL).

The John Bing Scholarship is a highly competitive award that recognizes outstanding educators across IGL’s global network of nearly 375 schools. Each year, only a select group of recipients are chosen to participate, making it one of the most distinguished honors for educators dedicated to advancing global teaching practices.

As a 2025 John Bing Scholar, Erin joined the Institute for Global Learning’s Summer Educator Program, a unique initiative designed to foster innovation, research-based professional growth, and cross-cultural collaboration. The program immerses educators in meaningful experiences that not only deepen their own understanding but also enhance the learning communities they serve.

During her time in New Zealand, Erin explored the profound connections between Māori culture and environmental stewardship, learning how values of care for the land and people are seamlessly woven into everyday practices. She also engaged with international educators committed to experiential and place-based learning, gathering practical strategies and fresh inspiration to bring back to Old Trail.

“A particularly meaningful part of my journey was learning about Māori culture and their profound connection to the land and the planet,” Erin shared. “Experiencing the way environmental stewardship is interwoven with cultural values and daily practices was deeply inspiring and has given me powerful examples to share with my students.”

The knowledge and perspective Erin gained will directly enrich Old Trail’s outdoor education program, infusing it with global context and renewed focus on sustainability. Her work will not only benefit students this school year but also create lasting ripple effects across the school community.

Please join us in congratulating Erin McNamara on receiving this prestigious award. We look forward to seeing the powerful ways her experience in New Zealand will inspire and shape Old Trail students in the year ahead.