Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Student Programs topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
District signs on to moonshot scuba/STEM program and expands tutoring options with Penn partnership
Summary
District leaders approved a moonshot grant program to offer scuba certification and STEM career exploration to about a dozen high school students at no cost to the district and accepted a tutoring certification opportunity with the University of Pennsylvania that could award college credits to participating seniors.
The board approved participation in a moonshot‑grant program that will bring a scuba certification and industry career‑exploration component to local high‑school students. Dr. Gaston described the program as a partnership with a regional nonprofit awarded a Remake Learning moonshot grant; the effort includes confined‑water instruction in the district pool, open‑water dives at nearby quarries and virtual mentoring from engineers, marine scientists and other industry partners.
District staff said the program will be available to roughly 12 high‑school students at no cost to the district and will include a culminating community showcase. The program also offers evening sessions for younger community members or adults who want to purchase initial certifications.
Separately, the board heard about a tutoring certification opportunity in partnership with the University of Pennsylvania. The program would allow participating students—initially seniors, with some juniors considered—to receive certification and up to four college credits at no cost to the students or district. Staff said there is no limit to enrollment at this informational stage, and they will return with enrollment and implementation details.
"Essentially a scuba program...there is no cost to the district," Dr. Gaston said, describing the moonshot grant arrangement and the career‑exploration components that accompany scuba training.
Why it matters: The program provides students with a mix of hands‑on technical training, mentorship and a possible pathway to industry certifications and careers. The tutoring certification offers an in‑district resource to support younger students while providing college credit and credentials to high‑school participants.
Next steps: District staff will run an information session in January for students and families interested in the scuba program and will follow up with details and formal approvals if additional district commitments are required.
