Jennifer Albright, Tabor Academy science teacher, has received a Secretary’s Award in Energy and Environmental Education Excellence. The award is given by the Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs.

Albright received the award on Monday May 8, at the Massachusetts State House.

Dr. Michael Rice, Professor of Fisheries and Aquaculture at the University of Rhode Island, nominated Ms. Albright for the award due to the scientific program that her aquaculture class tackled. The class spent two semesters studying oyster growth and populations.

Working with Roger Williams University, Albright and her Aquaculture class began growing oysters from larvae, rather than simply purchasing baby oysters for grow out. The goal was to dramatically scale up production in order to build an oyster reef at Tabor. Planted in the harbor in larger numbers, oysters will help to improve water quality, provide habitat for other species, and provide a good surface for the natural increased production of oysters.

With careful planning and collaboration with Karin Tammi, the former shellfish hatchery manager at Roger Williams, Albright’s aquaculture class has worked the past two spring semesters to successfully grow oysters from larvae.

When notified by the Office of Public Affairs last week that Albright would receive the prestigious award, Dr. Rice offered congratulations to Albright and to Tabor Academy for sponsoring such an innovative marine science education program.