The Manhattan High School 9th grade science teacher team has been honored with the 2026 Dave Colburn Green Apple Award, recognizing their outstanding commitment to environmental education and their positive impact on sustainability within the school and broader community.

The award was formally presented during a ceremony on Monday, April 20th at the Konza Prairie Biological Station. Community members, partners, and supporters attended to celebrate this remarkable achievement.

The award recipients—Noah Busch, Brad Fabrizius, Benji George, Kelsey Wilson, and Ethan

Shippy—are being recognized for their innovative work in developing the Tallgrass Prairie Storyline, a groundbreaking, inquiry-based curriculum created in collaboration with the Konza Environmental Education Program (KEEP).

This immersive, nine-week curriculum engages students in exploring the tallgrass prairie ecosystem through hands-on learning, critical thinking, and real-world scientific investigation. The experience begins with a compelling question sparked by a photograph taken at Konza Prairie: Do the two sides of the road look the same? If not, why?

From there, students embark on a journey of discovery, examining ecological concepts such as energy flow, nutrient cycling, trophic levels, and ecosystem dynamics. Students analyze classroom data and materials before visiting the Konza Prairie Biological Station for direct observation and field research. This powerful combination of classroom learning and field experience fosters a deep understanding of the prairie as a complex, dynamic system shaped by factors such as fire, grazing, and climate.

“This collaboration represents a truly transformative approach to science education,” said Jill Haukos, Director of Education at the Konza Prairie Biological Station. “Students not only learn biological principles—they develop a genuine appreciation for the ecosystem in their own backyard.”

What began at Manhattan High School has now expanded across Kansas, with hundreds of students in multiple districts engaging with the Tallgrass Prairie Storyline.

The Dave Colburn Green Apple Award honors individuals and organizations who demonstrate excellence in environmental education and sustainability. Named after Dave Colburn—longtime sales manager at The Pathfinder and former Manhattan-Ogden School Board member and president—the award celebrates his legacy of dedication to environmental stewardship in the Manhattan community.

Funding for the award was generously provided by the Bill and Erma Riley Family. Nominated by Jill Haukos, the Manhattan High School science team stood out among a strong pool of candidates for their innovation, collaboration, and measurable impact. KACEE proudly recognizes their contributions with this distinguished honor.

This recognition highlights not only the excellence of these educators but also the power of place-based learning to inspire the next generation of environmental stewards.

For more information about the award ceremony or the Tallgrass Prairie Storyline curriculum, please contact Jill Haukos at konzaed@ksu.edu.