Are you interested in joining like-minded educators to protect your local watershed and inspire the next generation of stewards? This Tri-State Blue Schools call is open to any K-12 institutions within New York, New Jersey, or Connecticut.

The Tri-State Blue Schools network is part of the USA Blue Schools Schools network – a nationwide project coordinated by Connecticut Sea Grant and Mercy University through funding from the Prada Group. Modeled on the National Oceanographic Atmospheric Association’s (NOAA) Ocean Guardian Schools and the international Blue Schools network, the USA Blue Schools network compels schools to make a commitment to the protection and conservation of local watersheds and our one global ocean. A school makes this commitment by proposing and implementing a school or community-based project and creating a plan to increase ocean literacy in their school community by engaging students, families, and community members.

Objectives:

1. To develop skills to foster the next generation of ocean leaders and stewards;

2. To provide opportunities for students, teachers, parents, and friends to participate in a range of environmental activities to take care of their local watershed.

3. To provide opportunities for schools to learn about their local waterways, research happening near them, and promote best environmental practices.

Benefits:

• $1,000 stipend per lead teacher, per year over two school years

• $4,000/school in mini-grants to implement schoolwide and community projects over two school years

• Support from a network of like-minded educators

• Connections with scientists, community organizations, and stewardship sites

• Possibility of travel funds to present at conferences

To Apply:

• Designate two lead teachers from your school

• Send a letter of support from school principal/ science supervisor

• Complete the application form (scoring rubric is available here)

Dates to Remember:

• November 5 – Applications due

• November 26 – Kick-off/ Orientation meeting via Zoom @ 7 PM Eastern

• December 2024 – June 2026- Schools implement projects

If interested, please contact: [email protected] or [email protected]

APPLY NOW!