Shoshana Leffler is an educator and developmental geneticist dedicated to advancing STEM education through innovative teaching methods that emphasize climate change awareness. With a background in developmental genetics, Shoshana leverages her expertise to create meaningful educational experiences that inspire students, especially in Title 1 schools. Her passion for education is matched by her commitment to fostering curiosity and critical thinking, making science accessible and relevant to all students.
Shoshana is particularly motivated by the opportunity to engage students in real-world environmental issues. She integrates climate change education into her lessons, using inquiry-based learning to help students connect scientific principles with pressing global challenges. Her approach underscores the importance of equipping students with the knowledge and skills to address climate change, making science not just a subject, but a tool for positive impact.
Early Life and Education
Growing up in the Bronx, New York, Shoshana developed an early interest in science and education. Her academic journey began at Princeton University, where she earned an A.B. in Chemistry. She continued her studies at New York University, obtaining a Ph.D. in Developmental Genetics. During her doctoral studies, she developed a mathematical model of the cerebellum, which helped predict childhood brain cancer occurrences. This groundbreaking research laid the foundation for her career in education, where she sought to apply her scientific knowledge to real-world educational challenges.
“My academic journey taught me that science isn’t just about knowing facts, but about asking the right questions and exploring new ideas. It’s this spirit of curiosity and discovery that I strive to instill in my students every day.”
Shoshana reflects on her experiences, emphasizing how her education shaped her approach to teaching and her commitment to connecting scientific concepts with real-world applications, particularly in the context of climate education.
Career and Professional Activities
Shoshana has made a significant impact in education by incorporating climate change into her inquiry-based teaching methods. Her work focuses on integrating environmental science into high school chemistry curricula, providing students with hands-on learning opportunities that highlight the urgency of addressing climate issues. For instance, she has led projects where students analyze local air and water quality, examine the effects of pollution, and explore sustainable practices.
“I love seeing my students realize that science isn’t just in textbooks—it’s in their environment, their communities, and their future. Climate science should be engaging and relatable, not just a distant concept.”
Beyond the classroom, Shoshana collaborates with educators to develop resources that promote climate literacy and critical thinking. Her efforts have helped shape curricula that prepare students to tackle climate challenges with confidence and creativity.
Personal Philosophy and Approach
Shoshana’s educational philosophy is rooted in the belief that education should empower students to ask questions, explore solutions, and connect their learning to the world around them. This approach is evident in her commitment to integrating climate science into her teaching, ensuring that students not only understand scientific concepts but also their relevance to global sustainability.
“My goal is to create a classroom where students feel safe to ask questions and make mistakes. By connecting science to their lives and the climate, we prepare them to tackle future challenges with confidence and creativity.”
Shoshana emphasizes ethical teaching practices and strives to create an inclusive learning environment that encourages students to take an active role in their education and their communities.
Personal Life
Shoshana is deeply rooted in her New York City community, balancing her career with a rich family life. She actively participates in community initiatives focused on education and sustainability, often hosting workshops and events that connect scientific learning to environmental stewardship.
“For me, community involvement is just an extension of what I do in the classroom. It’s all about building a future where education and climate action go hand in hand.”
Through her dedication to education and her commitment to a sustainable future, Shoshana Leffler continues to inspire and empower her students and community. Her work highlights the transformative power of education in addressing climate change and shaping a better world for future generations.
Interview with Shoshana Leffler
What keeps you motivated and excited about what you do?
What keeps me motivated and excited about my work is the critical role it plays in addressing the global challenge of climate change. The opportunity to educate others about the science behind climate change, its impacts, and the solutions we can implement is incredibly rewarding. Every day, I strive to empower individuals and communities with the knowledge and tools they need to take meaningful action. Watching people realize how their choices can influence the environment and witnessing their commitment to sustainable practices energizes me. This collective effort towards a healthier planet is what drives my passion for this work.
One specific instance that stands out is when I led a project on renewable energy solutions with a group of students. At first, they were skeptical about how much impact their small-scale project could have. However, as they researched and designed their own solar-powered devices, they saw the potential for real change. Their enthusiasm grew as they realized that even small actions, when scaled, could make a significant difference. This experience reinforced my belief that education and innovation are key to combating climate change, and it motivates me to continue fostering this kind of empowerment and discovery.
What’s your go-to way to relax and enjoy yourself during your downtime?
During my downtime, I love spending time outdoors, especially in green spaces where I can connect with nature. Whether it’s hiking in the mountains or simply taking a walk in a nearby park, being immersed in nature not only helps me relax but also reminds me of what we’re fighting to protect. These moments of tranquility fuel my determination to combat climate change, providing me with the mental clarity and inspiration I need to tackle the challenges ahead.
I also enjoy creative activities like drawing and photography, which often center on environmental themes. Capturing the beauty of the natural world through art is not only a way for me to unwind but also a way to communicate the importance of preserving our planet. These artistic pursuits allow me to express my passion for the environment in a different medium, and I find they often spark new ideas for my climate advocacy work.
What do you think is your single most crucial trait for success?
I believe my most crucial trait for success in addressing climate change is persistence. Tackling such a complex and urgent issue requires a long-term commitment and the resilience to keep pushing forward, even when progress seems slow. Whether it’s advocating for policy changes, educating communities, or implementing sustainable practices, persistence ensures that we stay the course and continue striving for a better future.
For example, when working on climate action initiatives, I’ve encountered numerous setbacks, from budget constraints to resistance to change. However, my persistence in finding solutions and rallying support has often turned these challenges into opportunities. By staying focused and determined, I’ve been able to drive impactful projects that contribute to our collective fight against climate change. Persistence isn’t just about enduring—it’s about actively overcoming obstacles and making steady progress toward our goals.
What’s the weirdest thing that has happened in your career?
One of the most unexpected moments in my climate advocacy career happened during a community workshop on sustainable living. We had planned to demonstrate the use of biodegradable materials, and as part of the event, a local artist had created a compostable sculpture. However, due to an unexpected rainstorm, the sculpture began to decompose prematurely, right in the middle of the presentation.
Instead of viewing it as a mishap, we turned it into a teachable moment. The audience saw firsthand how quickly natural materials break down compared to synthetic ones, sparking a lively discussion about waste reduction and composting. The incident, which we jokingly referred to as the “Great Compost Collapse,” became a memorable highlight of the event and underscored the importance of adaptability and embracing the unexpected in climate work.
How do you handle negative feedback when you receive it?
Receiving negative feedback is never easy, but in the context of climate change advocacy, I see it as an essential part of refining our strategies and messaging. My approach is to listen carefully, assess the validity of the feedback, and consider how it can help improve our efforts. Climate change is a complex issue, and it’s crucial to remain open to different perspectives and constructive criticism that can enhance our impact.
For instance, I once received feedback that our messaging around reducing carbon footprints was too technical and not relatable enough for our target audience. Initially, it was hard to accept, as I believed our information was clear. However, after reflecting on the feedback, I realized there was truth to it. We revised our approach, focusing on simple, actionable steps people could take in their daily lives. The positive response we received after making these changes confirmed that embracing feedback can lead to more effective communication and greater engagement.
What’s the hardest obstacle you’ve overcome in your life or career, and how did you do it?
The hardest obstacle I’ve faced in my career has been overcoming the widespread skepticism and misinformation surrounding climate change. Early on, I encountered significant resistance when trying to raise awareness about the issue, with many people dismissing the science or downplaying the urgency of taking action.
I overcame this challenge by focusing on education and communication. I sought out training in climate science communication, learning how to convey complex information in a way that resonates with different audiences. By building trust and providing clear, evidence-based explanations, I gradually gained support and shifted perspectives. This experience taught me the importance of persistence, empathy, and adaptability in climate advocacy. It also reinforced my commitment to ensuring that everyone understands the critical role they play in addressing climate change.
