We’re thrilled to share that Drury Thorp, one of the dedicated teachers who participated in our Palmer Station live classroom calls last year, has been named the 2025 Educator of the Year by the New Jersey Hall of Fame!
Thorp is being recognized for her “innovative, student-centered teaching that inspires curiosity, deep thinking, and civic engagement.” Her commitment to creating real-world learning experiences—like connecting her students with scientists working in Antarctica—has clearly made a lasting impact.
Her class from Watchung Elementary School in Montclair, NJ, joined our Palmer Station live calls during the 2024-2025 season, where students had the chance to interact directly with researchers studying oceanic ecosystems at the southernmost edge of the world. This experience not only brought science to life for her students but also helped elevate her work on a statewide stage.
Thorp will be honored at the 17th Annual New Jersey Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony on November 21, 2025, hosted by actor and filmmaker Danny DeVito.
We’re proud to have played a small part in her journey and celebrate this well-deserved recognition!