Brooklyn Science Teacher Wins $20,000 Robertson Award for Climate Education Leadership

Sean McFadden, a science teacher at Eagle Academy for Young Men II in Brooklyn, was named a recipient of the 2026 Julian Robertson Award for Excellence in Teaching, which carries a $20,000 unrestricted cash prize. McFadden co-chairs the New York City Department of Education's Climate Education Leadership Team, leading approximately 40 educators developing climate lessons ahead of a new state mandate. He developed curriculum for the city's K-8 Summer Rising programme, runs a civic science pilot across four boroughs using air quality sensors, and teaches AP Environmental Science and a climate change elective. He also serves as the school's sustainability coordinator. He transitioned into teaching after realising he enjoyed connecting with people more than conducting research, a shift that came during a doctoral programme in atmospheric science. Service with City Year in Brooklyn ultimately led him to the classroom. He has made equity a central tenet of his approach, seeking to amplify perspectives often missing from environmental conversations. He was one of ten New York City educators to receive the award this year.