With new funding, a city marine school will be the wave of the future.
Senator Kirsten Gillibrand announced last week that Congress is set to give final approval for $150,000 in federal funding to the Urban Assembly New York Harbor High School.
Gillibrand cites the changing economy as the reason for directing funds towards a school such as Harbor High School. She believes that students must be prepared for an economy that is environmentally-based.
“During these tough economic times, we need to continue investing in environmental education to prepare our students for the new green economy,” said Gillibrand. “We must continue to support programs that are creating the next generation of environmentalists by giving children a hands-on education that connects them with the environment.”
Located in Bushwick, Brooklyn and home to more than 420 students, the school is designed to prepare students for a career built upon the city’s unique maritime experience. The school’s curriculum covers a broad range of sectors including marine technology, commercial diving, coastal piloting and seamanship, marine engineering, and scuba diving and fisheries management.
New York Harbor High School plans to use the $150,000 to renovate and upgrade its new location on Governor’s Island, where the school will relocate in 2010.
Murray Fisher, co-founder and program director of the Harbor High School, said that the funding will help to steer students from all five boroughs towards a maritime career using the latest in marine technology.
“This is going to give us the opportunity to capitalize on one of the most beautiful and natural environments in New York City,” said Fisher. “It’s the biggest wilderness in the city, and we’re excited about city kids falling in love with nature.”
The funding will improve the school’s marine curriculum through technological upgrades and internship programs that will pair students with professionals in their chosen fields.
Students will be given the opportunity of a true hands-on learning experience as they engage in everything from repairing boats to running an actual oyster hatchery.
“This will get kids out on the water, and enable them to do all the things that make us a unique school. The new location is going to be a place where students will learn all sciences related to New York harbor,” said Fisher. “This is pivotal support from the federal government.”
