By Shazia Khan, NYC Channel 1 News
Queens teenagers are learning about marine science on the shores of the Rockaway Peninsula, thanks to a programming initiative by NY1 and its parent company Time Warner Cable that stresses the importance of science, technology, engineering and math in education. NY1′s Shazia Khan filed the following report.
As part of its “Aqua 101″ program, the Rockaway Waterfront Alliance, a community group, takes area teenagers on weekly trips down to the shore of the 11-mile long Rockaway Peninsula in Queens. The students learn lessons in marine science and environmental conservation and protection.
Rockaway Program Introduces Queens Teens To Marine Science
“Rockaway used to have one of the cleanest beaches. Most kids don’t even go in the beach. I mean, it’s incredible,” says a participant.
As they become stewards of the shoreline, the teenagers also help clean up the beach and get a chance to explore and raft through the water. For many participants, it is their first time exploring the water.
“These kids are from this community, they are from Far Rockaway, but prior to engaging with us in this program, they really had no relationship to the water. They didn’t engage in water-based activities,” says Rockaway Waterfront Alliance educator Elizabeth Manclark.
“Honestly, I have never experienced anything like this. It’s just awesome you get to see nature. You get to see how people are affecting the world that we live in,” says a participant.
The teens are also helping to improve the shores. Ama Eshun, 13, checks the water temperature.
Rockaway Program Introduces Queens Teens To Marine Science
“If it’s too cold, depending on what kind of fish it is, the fish can get really sick,” she says.
The students record and share the data and other information with the community and the city.
“It’s just so hands on and it’s so nice because you’re not just sitting in a classroom reading. You’re outside, exploring the world, learning how to take care of it with your own hands,” says a participant.
“Aqua 101″ does its part to make science part of the everyday. For more information on other programs designed to inspire children through science, technology, engineering and math, visit ConnectAMillionMinds.com.