K-12 Students Showcase Ocean Advocacy Projects at Long Island Sound Symposium
Approximately 250 elementary, middle and high school students from eight public schools across New York and Connecticut gathered at The Maritime Aquarium in Norwalk, Connecticut this spring to share their efforts to protect local watersheds and promote ocean literacy. The event, part of the (LISSN), gave elementary, middle, and high school students a platform to present their ocean advocacy work to the public.
The student symposium was the culmination of a year of hands-on environmental education supported by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Long Island Sound Study through a $200,000 grant. The program is facilitated by 鱨 and the Connecticut Sea Grant and is modeled on NOAA’s Ocean Guardian Schools initiative and the international Blue Schools network.
“This was a wonderful opportunity for students to learn what other youth are doing to learn about and protect our shared waterways,” said Dr. Meghan Marrero, professor of secondary science education and co-director of the Center for STEM at 鱨, who co-leads the program. “We had elementary, middle, and high school students learning from each other, plus enjoying a day at the aquarium.”
Participating schools—all within the Long Island Sound watershed—included Jefferson and George M. Davis Elementary Schools in New Rochelle, PS583 in the Bronx, Susan E. Wagner High School in Staten Island, Sound School High School in New Haven, Thomaston High School, House of Arts Letters and Science Academy in New Britain and Walter Fitzgerald Campus in Southport.
Each school set up posters around the aquarium floor among exhibits, sharing projects such as watershed mapping, organizing fishing clinics for younger students, and analyzing pollution sources in the Sound. Students also took part in aquarium-led educational programs and explored marine exhibits, making the event both enriching and fun.
“Attending the symposium was a truly transformative experience for my students,” said Francesca Pertarico, teacher from the Davis School in New Rochelle. “It gave them the chance to step beyond the classroom and see themselves as young scientists, advocates, and changemakers. Watching their confidence grow as they shared their knowledge, engaged with others, and realized that their voices matter was incredibly inspiring. This experience didn’t just teach them about the environment, it showed them that they have the power to make a difference.”
Students from Davis School echoed her enthusiasm:
Rauf, a 5th grader, shared: “Walking into the large cafeteria filled with colorful posters, students from other schools, and environmental experts was both exciting and a little nerve-wracking. Seeing so many people passionate about protecting the environment made me realize how important our work is. It was amazing to be part of something so big, and knowing that our efforts contribute to protecting the Long Island Sound—and even the entire ocean—made me feel really proud!”
Ava, a 3rd grader, said: “I absolutely loved it! It was such a fun and exciting experience. My favorite part was seeing the big shark tank—it was amazing! Seeing all the other schools there was really cool, but I have to admit, I felt a little nervous talking to students from different schools. But once we started sharing our projects, it was great to connect with others who care about the environment just like we do!”
Isabella, also in 3rd grade, added: “It was the best experience ever! My favorite part was getting to touch the sea animals—it was so cool! I was a little nervous about talking to students from other schools at first, but it was really interesting to hear about their projects and what they’re doing to help the environment.”
PS583 teacher Carmelia Rodriguez agreed: “The symposium was a wonderful event. Our students enjoyed presenting their work as advocates of the Long Island Sound. We learned so much from other schools as well and we are honored to be a part of a team that cares for the ocean around us.”
Student from PS583 reacted with enthusiasm to the event as a whole: “We love the sea”; “PS583 advocates for ocean awareness”; “Very good trip – bring me back!” and “It was valuable because we need to keep our oceans clean.”
Dr. Meghan Marrero speaks to one of the students about their poster.
A student presents his work.
K-12 students walk into The Maritime Aquarium for the LISSN Student Symposium.