From Soil to STEM: Transforming the Classroom with Kevin O’Gorman

In this episode, we talk with Kevin O’Gorman, a hands-on science educator whose love for agriculture and the natural world began on his family’s retired apple orchard in upstate New York. With a degree in Animal Science (Fisheries, Aquaculture & Wildlife Management) and more than a decade in the classroom, Kevin has built a unique “hands-in-the-dirt” teaching style that brings science to life for K–5 students.

Kevin shares how UF/IFAS Extension programs and mentor teachers inspired him to integrate horticulture, gardening, and environmental studies into daily lessons. From his popular “Bug of the Week” feature—teaching pest ID, beneficial insects, and ecosystem diversity—to designing a classroom culture where every student (and even their families) has a role in the garden, Kevin emphasizes learning with purpose.

Listeners will hear why he believes:

--Tactile, outdoor learning helps students thrive

--Purpose-driven lessons create better engagement

--Failure is an essential part of discovery

--Understanding the “why” behind science empowers young learners

--Gardens build community and connect students to the environment

Kevin’s passion for experiential science, sustainability, and student curiosity shines through as he shares how garden-based learning can grow stronger thinkers, problem-solvers, and future environmental stewards.