High School Regional Programs ⟶ Program Themes ⟶ Global Ecology and Leadership

Global Ecology and Leadership

The Global Ecology & Leadership regional program equips students with a deep understanding of the scientific, cultural, social, political, economic, and technological factors that influence quality of life on our planet. Through an interdisciplinary approach emphasizing science and social studies, students examine complex environmental challenges and explore sustainable solutions from both local and global perspectives.

This field‑based program provides students with meaningful hands‑on learning experiences. Through an integrated curriculum, students investigate historical and contemporary environmental issues related to the Earth’s natural resources and develop a global ecological perspective that prepares them to address real‑world environmental challenges thoughtfully and ethically.

Core Experiences

• Participate in annual interdisciplinary projects
• Earn college credit
• Complete a capstone project
• Engage in service-learning opportunities
• Participate in field trip and fieldwork experiences

Program Goals

1. Develop Foundational Knowledge and Skills
   Students will gain a robust understanding of core ecological concepts, including how ecosystems function and the mechanisms behind global environmental challenges like climate change, while mastering the technical data analysis and communication skills necessary for scientific research and advocacy.
2. Provide Hands-On, Real-World Experience
   The program ensures practical application through hands-on fieldwork where students learn to design ethical research protocols, participate in applied projects to solve real-world problems, and develop collaborative problem-solving skills necessary to address complex issues in diverse teams.
3. Foster Career and College, Career and/or Community Pathways
   This pathway prepares students for the future by helping them identify career opportunities, build a professional portfolio to showcase their skills, and engage with professionals and community leaders to become active, informed citizens committed to ethical environmental governance.

Application & Locations

Application: Interest-based application

Schools:

• Region 6: Poolesville

Course Progression

Below is a sample sequence of courses for students enrolled in the Global Ecology and Leadership Program. Cells in blue are related to the program pathway. This is subject to change as the programs are developed.

Course Requirements

In addition to MCPS requirements for graduation, all students must complete the following to remain enrolled in the Global Ecology & Leadership Center Program and earn the related certificate:

Science Core

• Environmental Science Biology
• Honors Chemistry for Global Ecology
• Environmental Science Physics or AP Physics 1/2
• AP Environmental Science

Social Science Core

• AP Seminar for Global Ecology
• Honors US History for Global Ecology
• AP US Government for Global Ecology
• AP World History for Global Ecology

Capstone Focus

• 1 credit in Technology Education
• 2 credits from Global Ecology electives
• AP Research