Virginia Marine Science Museum

Purpose: Serving as Centers of Community Engagement The Virginia Marine Science Museum will use this grant to extend its highly successful Sea Scholars program. This communitywide environmental education program serves high-needs audiences in Portsmouth and Norfolk. Through multiple museum-led science experiences, the Sea Scholars program engages students, their families, and their communities to (1) increase student knowledge and interest in science and the environment; (2) increase student achievement and confidence in science; and (3) foster home and community environments that support student enthusiasm for science. Over two years, the program will involve more than 4,800 elementary students in 10 high-needs schools. This audience is important because of the schools' academic and economic needs and because, as suggested by the American Zoo and Aquarium Association, "the critical time for children to bond with nature and to transform their interest into active involvement lies in the preteen years." The Sea Scholars program will reach approximately 2,400 members of students' families through Family Science Fairs at schools and Family Nights at the museum and approximately 1,600 more children and adults through summer programs at Boys and Girls Clubs and community centers.