NewsDrop-May-June-2026

EAA EDUCATION OUTREACH CENTER

Deep Roots, Clear Waters Celebrating 30 Years of Education

Over time, the depth and scope of the program expanded as well. Today, Aquifer Educators cover all aspects of the aquifer system—from the unique geology that makes it so productive, to the threatened and endangered species that depend on its waters, to everyday conservation practices. Visitors also learn practical ways to make a difference at home, including the benefits of using native plants to conserve water and support healthy ecosystems.

The program has now entered an exciting new chapter. Stakeholders from across the region visit the EOC for hands-on learning experiences that highlight the importance of conservation. Engaging presenters and “edutainers” make learning both fun and meaningful, while teacher workshops provide valuable opportunities for educators to learn directly from Authority staff and bring that knowledge back to their classrooms.

By: EOC Staff

The EAA Education Program has grown and evolved through the dedication of many passionate individuals over the years. What began as a simple outreach effort has transformed into a state-of-the-art Education Outreach Center (EOC), continually adapting to better serve the community. As we reflect on this journey, it feels fitting to reconnect with one of the Aquifer Educators who helped shape the program along the way.

Aquifer Educators are a vital part of the Authority’s Communications and Engagement team, but the program’s success reaches far beyond one group. Staff from across the organization have contributed their time and expertise, alongside dedicated volunteers, interns, and work-study students. This collaborative spirit has expanded both the reach and impact of the program, bringing a wide range of perspectives and talents into the educational experience. In its early days, the program consisted of a modest information table at public events, where staff shared basic knowledge about the Edwards Aquifer with curious visitors. As interest grew, so did the program—expanding into school visits and Career Day presentations that brought aquifer education directly into classrooms and inspired students to learn about this vital natural resource.

One former educator, Cinde Thomas-Jimenez, who worked with the program from 1991 through 1997 under the Edwards Aquifer Underground Water District and the EAA, recalls just how simple those early resources were. “When I first started, the only educational piece we had was a map of the aquifer region, with a cross section of the aquifer underneath,” she said. “By the time I left, an updated version of that map/poster was in hundreds, if not thousands, of classrooms throughout the Edwards region.” That same map was even featured in an outdoor kiosk at Comal Springs in New Braunfels. Thomas-Jimenez also remembers how much the tools and technology evolved during her time with the program. “I actually used a slide projector and a carousel of 35 mm slides,” she said. “Many of those slides were later converted to electronic images and are still used today.” Reflecting on her experience, she added, “I also spent a good deal of time collaborating with the Communications and Education team—the best I’ve ever worked with during my 35+ year career in Environmental Education.”

Photo: The EAA’s dynamic educator duo, Elizabeth Gutierrez, STEAM Outreach Educator II , and Sarah Valdez, Senior STEAM Outreach Educator.

From a simple booth to an immersive educational experience, the EAA Education Program continues to grow—connecting people to the aquifer and inspiring new generations to protect this incredible resource.

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