Downers Grove North Teacher Receives National Award for Climate Education

Downers Grove North High School biology and anatomy and physiology teacher Jeff Grant has been named the inaugural recipient of the Friend of the Planet Excellence in Climate Education Award by the National Center for Science Education (NCSE), a national organization dedicated to strengthening science education. 

 "I'm honored to receive this amazing recognition from the NCSE.” said Jeff Grant. “I'm thankful to my colleagues, my students, and the collective Downers Grove family for making my work so meaningful. I hope this award helps continue the conversations about the importance of high quality science education and becoming better stewards of this planet we all call home."  

The award recognizes exceptional K-12 educators whose work exemplifies thorough climate change education. Grant was selected for his outstanding leadership in climate education and his lasting impact on his students. His work reflects NCSE’s commitment to scientific accuracy, excellence in education and public engagement. 

Downers Grove North Principal Courtney Dement said “Jeff has an incredible ability to make science meaningful and relevant for his students. His influence extends far beyond our school through his leadership in climate education, and we couldn't be prouder to see him recognized on a national stage.”

Grant is a former NCSE Teacher Ambassador, and received the Golden Apple for Excellence in Teaching and Leadership award in 2016, the Outstanding Biology Teacher of Illinois award from the National Association of Biology Teachers in 2020, and was the DuPage County Teacher of the Year in 2026. He is also involved in organizing Climate of HOPE, a climate change professional development conference for K-12 educators in Illinois. Grant will be invited to discuss his work at the National Association of Biology Teachers Professional Development Conference next year. 

Congratulations to Jeff Grant on this well-deserved recognition. 

For more information about District 99 and its schools, please visit www.csd99.org.