Description

Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Community to Gather for “Waves of Change” Earth Week Gala Supporting The Nature School and it’s Mission to Educate the Next Generation of Environmental Stewards

Santa Rosa Beach, FL — This Earth Week, on April 18, 2026, community leaders, families, and environmental advocates will gather at the iconic Bud & Alley’s Waterfront Restaurant for an inspiring evening dedicated to the future of our planet.

Waves of Change: from Salt to Soil, an Earth Week Gala hosted by The Nature School, a K-5 school in South Walton, will celebrate and support the next generation of environmental stewards through education, conservation initiatives, and community collaboration.

The event highlights the work of The Nature School, where students spend regular time learning outdoors, studying ecosystems, wildlife, and environmental science firsthand. The school is grounded in the belief that education should nurture both the natural world and the nature of the child—supporting curiosity, creativity, and exploration. Organizers say the goal is to cultivate a generation that understands both their connection to nature and their responsibility to protect it.

The evening will feature:

• A Golden Hour Sunset Toast at the Water’s Edge
• Live Music by the PICKLED PICKERS
• Chef-curated Small Plates
• Open Bar
• Conservation partnerships
• A major announcement about the school’s transition to a single plastic-free campus for the upcoming school year.

Tables throughout the gala will represent different ecosystems—such as forests, dunes, and seagrass—symbolizing the interconnected systems that sustain coastal life in Walton County.

Funds raised will support student-led environmental initiatives such as dune restoration, wildlife conservation, and partnerships with regional environmental organizations. Contributions will also help expand The Nature School’s outdoor learning environment by funding natural playgrounds, transportation for field-based learning, fencing, and scholarships that allow more children to participate in this unique nature-based education.

This event marks the launch of a movement and is intended to become a signature Earth Week gathering for the 30A community. “This is about more than one night,” said Janet Stein, the founder of the school. “It’s about shaping the future of our environment and the leaders who will protect it.”

Tickets and sponsorship opportunities will launch soon. Media outlets and local magazines are invited to attend and cover the event.

Contact:
Liah Catanese

Cell: 850-376-5405

Email: [email protected]

Event Coordinator

Event Details:

The Nature School Earth Week Gala
Waves of Change: from salt to soil.

Educating the Next Generation of Environmental Stewards
April 18, 2026
Bud & Alley’s

Santa Rosa Beach, Florida

Waves of Change Gala | 6:00–9:00 PM
Exclusive VIP Champagne Reception | 5:30 PM

We would truly love to have 30A be part of this movement.

Warmly,
Liah Catanese
850-376-5405