IRMO – Amy Umberger, Resident Scientist at Dutch Fork Elementary School – Academy of Environmental Sciences, has been named the 2025 Environmental Educator of the Year by the Environmental Education Association of South Carolina (EEASC).
This statewide honor recognizes educators who go above and beyond to build environmental knowledge, spark curiosity, and inspire stewardship in students. Umberger earned the award for her work leading Dutch Fork Elementary’s innovative “Crumbs to Compost” program, which turns leftover cafeteria food into valuable compost instead of landfill waste.
Since launching the initiative in 2016, Umberger has helped more than 485 students learn to sort compostable waste, keeping over 30 tons of food scraps out of landfills each year.
“Winning this award from EEASC means so much to me,” Umberger said. “There are so many amazing environmental educators across South Carolina doing great work. To be chosen is incredibly humbling. I’m grateful to the staff and faculty at Dutch Fork Elementary for supporting these projects and helping us make a real difference.”
Under Umberger’s leadership, the program recently earned a $1,000 conservation mini‑grant to help it grow. But her impact goes far beyond the cafeteria—she encourages students to apply what they learn in real life, building a schoolwide culture of environmental awareness and action. She also serves as a Project Learning Tree Facilitator, helping connect outdoor education with classroom learning.
Dutch Fork Elementary Principal Rebecca Dilley praised Umberger’s dedication.
“Mrs. Umberger is one of the most passionate educators I’ve ever known,” Dilley said. “She gives her heart and energy every day to our students and to making our school better. Her work doesn’t just teach kids about science—it gives them experiences and memories that will last a lifetime. This recognition is well-deserved, and we are so proud of her.”
Umberger’s work continues to position Dutch Fork Elementary as a leader in environmental education in South Carolina.
