By james art 
Jen Fox, an environmental and biology science teacher at Lincoln High School in North Seattle, believes in the introduction of real -world experiences in his classroom. It takes students beyond the textbooks to the area where they can see firsthand what it is necessary to preserve natural areas and to demonstrate environmental justice in action.
So, when the opportunity to collaborate with the port of Seattle and Washington Alliance for better schools (WABS), she jumped in the opportunity. Through a Teach2Connect, a program designed to train teachers in the High School related to the port, FOX partnered with WABS and port staff to develop a curriculum that includes practical experience in training. The result? Deep diving in the efforts to clean along the Duhamish River.
During a two -day Fox Summer Seminar, the port team and WABS coordinated an excursion to the habitats restoration of the Duwamish River. This immersive experience gave students a unique view of the intersection of the environment science, career opportunities and real -world work.
Opportunity
Since 2018, the port has partnered with WABS to help students gain the skills and knowledge needed to success in the workforce. This collaboration has influenced more than 4,000 students in the last three years through educational programs and guide services.
Recognizing this impactful work, Wabs chose the port as the recipient of his Award for Excellent Education of the YearTo be presented at his upcoming event on the window of success. The award organizations have honored, committed to the WABS mission, with a strong focus on diversity, justice and inclusion.
The port maintains key programs on WABS such as Teach2Connect, career tours and STEM4Good, which introduce primary and medium -sized career students associated with ports through school programs. The port also plays a leadership role in WABS, with Commissioner Ryan Kalkins serving in the Board of Directors and the Director for the Development of the Port Workforce, Anna Pavlik, participating in the Advisory Board of the Industry.
“The port guide was crucial to the success of our partnership,” ” WABS President and CEO Emily Yim said. “These programs allow students to explore their career opportunities in their own yard, deepening their awareness of the role of the port in our community.”
Kalkins said the presentation of students in the Pacific northwest in the career -related career is invaluable. “The children growing here should have practical experience with our maritime and aviation industry. With our rich maritime history and our fame in the aerospace industry, every student should be able to get acquainted with the career in these areas. This begins with awareness at an early age and the port undertakes to ensure that education is paired with access and the ability to work for salaries right here at home. “
Pavlik emphasized the importance of reaching the students early. “It is crucial to get acquainted with students, even at elementary and high school level, with the Wage Wage career at the harbor. WABS is an incredible mental partner in shaping programs that have a real impact. In the light of the incredible opportunities for economic development and challenges we face as a region, we must continue to develop such types of partnerships because we are all stronger together. “
Dourse
For Fox, the integration of the Duhamish River in its lessons was a natural fit. Its students had already explored the river through the Holy Waters Department, studying topics such as shifting the perceptions of the Dougin River, the quality of the sound water puget and the environmental justice. The excursion came to life these lessons.
Leaded by the employees of the environmental port, the students visited two areas – one untouched and another that was restored – offering a striking contrast. The trip took place just before great cleaning efforts began in December, allowing students to witness environmental recovery in real time.
Beyond science, students also found career paths that they did not consider. “Many had no idea that career in engineering, law or public service could lead them to the harbor,” ” said Fox. “They saw how their training could be connected to real jobs.”
To expand the experience, FOX and colleague collected water samples from five Duwamish site to test in the classroomS “The most important thing is that this is not a story – this is happening right now,” she said. “Students see real decisions and take action right now.”
Wabs has played a decisive role in turning cooperation seamlessly, logistics processing so that FOX employees and the port can focus on engaging with students.
Students shared what they liked about the field next to the Duasham River sites:
“Hearing about the various experiences and trips of all who brought them to this job [and the] Different types of work that people do. “
“Plant help/sorting of seeds and learning career opportunities.”
“Let’s learn about various career paths.”
“Seeing the site of an upcoming restoration. We have seen how this site is damaged but will be turned into a park as [Duwamish River] People’s park. “
Connecting to the marine career
Rut Perez-Studer, a senior port manager of Fishing Vessel Services, partners with WABS partners of the fishermen’s career tours, and helped organize bilingual tours for Highline Public Schools students. The tour is conducted in both Spanish and English, providing an inclusive experience for students from poorly represented communities.
“It turned out very well”, Perez-Stadad said. “When students hear someone speak Spanish in a professional setting, it opens their eyes to new opportunities. Many come uncertain, but by the end they take pictures and are excited about a career they have never considered. “
WABS manages logistics, including coordination with the port and school neighborhoods, organizes transportation and sponsoring lunch to make it easier to commit. Students have revealed that many are familiar with maritime jobs that they never knew existed – a career with a strong potential for profit.
During the tour, Perez-C-with-Studer also directs students to the Seattle Maritime Academy, which offers paths in the marine career.
“This is what the guide looks like” she said. “The support of the development of the workforce and the opportunities for young people are aligned with the basic values of the port of anti -racism, respect and public service. This award is a testament to how we appear for the communities we serve. “
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