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About Kate Seeland

Kate Seeland founded Beyond the Bug when she noticed a niche that needed to be filled in the realm of environmental education. Oftentimes, certain animals are not given the spotlight they deserve due to society’s (often misguided) perception of such creatures. Beyond the Bug serves to focus on misunderstood wildlife to build empathy and understanding through engaging, hands-on educational programs. Kate is a skilled educator and animal welfare specialist with previous experience working with institutions such as The Watershed Institute, Turtle Back Zoo, and The Raptor Trust. Kate holds 12 certifications in animal welfare and education, and she published an article titled “Inspiring Curiosity: Teaching Preschool Programs at The Raptor Trust” in the International Association of Avian Trainers 2025 Winter Flyer. Her lifelong passion and enthusiasm for protecting wildlife, even the “creepy” or “weird” ones, shine during her presentations. The genuine love and care she shows to the animals she features are contagious! Kate hopes her programs will help even the most apprehensive of the crowd learn to see beyond the bug!

ABOUT US

About Kate Seeland

Kate Seeland founded Beyond the Bug when she noticed a niche that needed to be filled in the realm of environmental education. Oftentimes, certain animals are not given the spotlight they deserve due to society’s (often misguided) perception of such creatures. Beyond the Bug serves to focus on misunderstood wildlife to build empathy and understanding through engaging, hands-on educational programs. Kate is a skilled educator and animal welfare specialist with previous experience working with institutions such as The Watershed Institute, Turtle Back Zoo, and The Raptor Trust. Kate holds 12 certifications in animal welfare and education, and she published an article titled “Inspiring Curiosity: Teaching Preschool Programs at The Raptor Trust” in the International Association of Avian Trainers 2025 Winter Flyer. Her lifelong passion and enthusiasm for protecting wildlife, even the “creepy” or “weird” ones, shine during her presentations. The genuine love and care she shows to the animals she features are contagious! Kate hopes her programs will help even the most apprehensive of the crowd learn to see beyond the bug!

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Testimonials

Beyond the Bug is beyond fun! Entertaining, educational, engaging and empathetic. Kate is not just an animal whisperer; she connects the animals to people of all ages. Beyond the Bug is a bright light we need in our world. Her lessons go beyond empathy for animals; they connect us to each other and all living things.
Pat Heaney
Pat HeaneyFormer Assistant Director at The Watershed Institute
There is no better educator for your nature obsessed kid than Kate! Kate is knowledgeable enough to make any topic accessible to kids and enthusiastic enough to make sure they love learning with her. She'll help your kids learn using all their senses, playing games, coloring, and asking the questions that are important to them. As her former boss, none of my other employees received so many compliments from parents, teachers, librarians, and other environmental educators. Her commitment to animal ethics ensures that not only will your experience be educational, but the animals are well cared for. Kate's dedication and passion make her an exceptional choice for any nature-based educational experience! for animals; they connect us to each other and all living things.
Heather Natola PhD
Heather Natola PhDFormer Director of Education at The Raptor Trust
Kate is so knowledgeable about animals and shares her deep love of protecting and caring for them with everyone. Kate’s Zeal for animal welfare comes with a touch of whimsy and curiosity that makes her programs memorable.
Jessica McDermott
Jessica McDermott Assistant Director of Education at The Watershed Institute
Kate is a gifted educator. From our first interaction, I was impressed with the depth of her knowledge and her enthusiasm for sharing it. She’s especially great with young kids, connecting with their curiosity and meeting them on their level.
Christina Conner
Christina ConnerFormer Director of Development at The Raptor Trust
I really enjoyed watching and participating in Kate’s lessons. Her total grasp of the lesson material results in not just an informative lesson, but an understanding and appreciation of what is being learned. She can tailor her presentations so everyone is included in learning and a positive learning experience. Kate’s preparation and lesson development, as well as presentation, are spot on. Every lesson she presents is a totally enjoyable way to learn.
Vicky Allen
Vicky AllenEducator at The Watershed Institute
Kate is an educator driven by love - a love for the full range of animal beings. She stirs our sense of wonder and fortifies the bond between us and the animal world around through her empathy, enthusiasm, and knowledge.
Jeff Hoagland
Jeff HoaglandDirector of Education at The Watershed Institute

Contributors

  • The Watershed Institute
  • Popcorn Park Zoo
  • Washington Crossing State Park
  • Heather Natola PhD
  • Emily Olsen
  • Donna Font Toomey

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