STEM-tastic Learning Experience
With so many budding scientists at NA, Kristin Duszak, Assistant to the Dean of Students, and Debra Tavares, a certified SCUBA Diver with a Marine Biology background, and a veteran of the NA Science department, were thrilled to lead a group of 10 students (rising juniors and seniors) to the Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences (BIOS), an independent marine science organization, located in Ferry Reach, St. George’s, Bermuda, from June 17-23, 2016.
Alessia Mercuri ’18 wants to pursue a career in physical therapy or exercise science. Jonathan Charette ’18 is passionate about the ecosystem and took part in a semester-long travel and study program at The Island School. Julia Tarnow ’17 hopes to be a social entrepreneur, focusing on fixing environmental issues.
“I knew this was a great opportunity to inspire the students the way I was inspired during my educational career,” said Duszak, who has a background in marine ecology.
“I knew this was a great opportunity to inspire the students the way I was inspired during my educational career,” said Duszak, who has a background in marine ecology.
Lectures and activities focused on sustainable use of coastal ecosystems, the different habitats and organisms that make up the ocean, how individuals and businesses are causing harm to the oceans and what are the solutions to support maritime life.
Students took part in a beach clean-up, snorkeled alongside coral reefs, navigated using the stars, discussed ocean current patterns and learned to identify features of edible fish and plants. Using the knowledge absorbed during their discovery and exploration, students completed research-based projects that supported real-world issues and solutions. Bermuda’s outdoor classroom was the perfect experiential learning space
“This trip provided me (and my peers!) with so many first-hand learning experiences that were relevant to our world,” happily reflected Laila Shushtarian ’18.
Last year, Michael Celente '12 had the opportunity to help design a summer engineering program at BIOS and he knew current NA students would benefit greatly from the experience. In June 2015, the first group of NA took part in the experience. Read more in the Spring 2016 issues of Lumen.
Last year, Michael Celente '12 had the opportunity to help design a summer engineering program at BIOS and he knew current NA students would benefit greatly from the experience. In June 2015, the first group of NA took part in the experience. Read more in the Spring 2016 issues of Lumen.
An independent school for students in grades 6-12