Nathan Butler, an outdoor education teacher at Carroll Middle School, was recently named the 2020-2021 Educator of the Year by the Outdoors Tomorrow Foundation. The OTF promotes outdoor education and wildlife conservation.
“I was so honored to be recognized for this award,” Nathan says. "Although my name is tied to this award, there have been so many people and organizations that have helped me over the years. These three individuals have helped me the most: Scot McClure from the Outdoors Tomorrow Foundation, Lane Palmer of Ft. Worth Fishing, and Thor Gunnlaugsson."
Nathan is currently in his fourth year teaching outdoor education.
"I think that our society is so dependent on technology that we forget about all the experiences that can be had outdoors. Being a graduate of Carroll ISD, I also understand how challenging academics are here in Carroll," Nathan says. "I think that it is great that Carroll ISD has partnered with the Outdoors Tomorrow Foundation by providing Outdoor Education for kids and helping them develop a greater appreciation for the outdoors. Another reason that Outdoor Education is important in the school setting is that it has created an avenue for kids at Carroll ISD to be a part of the Carroll Bass Fishing Team, the Southlake Carroll Target Team and the Carroll NASP Archery Club."