The weekly program has been run by the Aquarium for four years, emphasizing STEM literacy as a way to prepare for college, create career opportunities and develop skills that will help in the workforce.
Students from Brien McMahon and Norwalk High Schools took part in the program. The aquarium's director of education, Tom Naiman, praised them for completing the program while juggling all of their other commitments.
“In light of all that, your dedication (to TeMPEST) and what you all have achieved is truly remarkable,” Naiman said at the ceremony. “We are so proud to have played a role in your journey.”
A total of 18 seniors pulled double duty at the aquarium with paid Marketing and Animal Husbandry Department internships while the 45 underclassmen focused on the program.
Aquarium educators also singled out students for their achievements and participation.
Juan Rosales, Sahian Becerril, Mary Guerra, Carla Valdez, Dominick Velez, Peter Tinnesz, Abigail Gonzales, Laura Ramirez and Lilah Smith were honored from Brien McMahon High. Madison French, Jada Daniels, Miguel Plaza, Hailey Agostino, Ava Schaer, Sam Jones and Julia Breen from Norwalk High earned honors as well.
Students also had the opportunity to show off some of their work at the ceremony, ranging from showing off underwater remotely operated vehicles, videos on animal evolution and adaptations, and species population census methods created on a 3D printer.
For more information about the Maritime Aquarium’s educational programs, go online to www.maritimeaquarium.org or call (203) 852-0700.
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