Tobal recognized for work with Trout in the Classroom
When Jim Tobal retired from teaching in 2003, he couldn’t completely walk away from the profession he knew and loved.
For more than a decade, Tobal has worked with the local chapter of Trout Unlimited to bring the science and fun of native brook trout to local schools. It was his enthusiasm and dedication that led to Tobal’s recent recognition by Pennsylvania Trout Unlimited.
Last month, Tobal was awarded the Dr. Jack Beck Award for Outstanding Youth Outreach award at a banquet near State College after being nominated by the members of the Chestnut Ridge Chapter of TU.
According to Tobal, Beck was known in the TU world for starting programs that brought young people into the areas of conservation and the outdoors, as well as getting kids involved.
Tobal was recognized for his work with the Trout in the Classroom — an educational program with the state Fish and Boat Commission and the Pennsylvania Council of Trout Unlimited that promotes the hands-on knowledge of native brook trout and cold-water conservation.
“I miss it. There’s something about being a teacher that’s really special,” Tobal said. “It gave me an opportunity to stay active.”
Each year, they support teachers and students who raise brook trout in their classrooms from eggs. Students keep daily journals as they observe the trout, and get hands-on experience with testing pH levels and water temperature.
The trout are later released as fingerlings in nearby approved trout streams — an immersive, outdoor experience for the students.
Normally, most chapters have only one or two classrooms enrolled in the educational program. The local chapter of TU far surpassed that number.
“They were impressed that it’s offered in 20 different schools here in Fayette, Greene, Washington and Somerset counties,” Tobal said.
Tobal started the programs locally about 12 years ago. As a former educator, he was drawn to the curriculum offered with the program.
“That’s what attracted me. They give curriculum guides so they can use the raising of fish to teach everything, from reading to math to science,” Tobal said.
Dale Kotowski, president of the Chestnut Ridge Chapter of TU, noted that Tobal has been a valuable asset to not only the local chapter, but also the statewise TU efforts.
“He’s very dedicated. Another advantage is that he’s a retired educator. He interacts easily with people in the schools, which is an obstacle for the success of the Trout in the Classroom program,” Kotowski said, adding that teachers might find the initial project intimidating.
Tobal is able to interact with teachers and students in a way that puts their minds at ease, Kotowski said.
“We’re dedicated to our youth programs, because they’ll hopefully develop future conservationists for the next generation,” Kotowski added.
“They’re a great organization, especially this local chapter. They do so much,” Tobal said, noting that he was humbled by the award.