Vashon Science Center nets $75k NOAA grant for education

The grant will fund the Nature Center’s “Scientists in Schools” program.

By Alex Bruell • September 28, 2023 1:30 am
9th grade biology students conduct a juvenile salmon survey in Judd Creek with VNC Science Director Bianca Perla (Photo courtesy of Bianca Perla).
9th grade biology students conduct a juvenile salmon survey in Judd Creek with VNC Science Director Bianca Perla (Photo courtesy of Bianca Perla).

The Vashon Nature Center received a $75,000 grant from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) this month for its work with students and scientists.

The grant, administered through NOAA’s Bay Watershed Education and Training (B-WET) program, will fund the Nature Center’s “Scientists in Schools” program to help K-12 students in the Vashon Island School District do hands-on work alongside professional scientists who are monitoring the island’s watershed health.

During the school year, every student in the first, fourth, fifth, sixth and ninth grades, as well as some high school elective takers, can participate in the Scientists in Schools program. Students perform field investigations and analyze data from local creeks and shorelines. Then they put together their research for projects focused on science communication or environmental stewardship.

The program aims to grow young people’s understanding and connection to their local ecosystems, and develop their observation and critical thinking skills. It reaches about 400 students each year.

The B-WET program is a competitive grant operated by NOAA; more information is available here.

The Vashon Nature Center conducts community science, education, and research programs, funded in large part by the Vashon Schools Foundation, Partners in Education, and community donations. Learn more at vashonnaturecenter.org.