Sol. C. Johnson High School Educators Join UGA Skidaway Institute of Oceanography for Offshore Zooplankton Research

The University System of Georgia Skidaway Institute of Oceanography (SkIO) is actively partnering with Sol C. Johnson High School to advance STEM Education, particularly in Marine Science. Beginning in the 2024-2025 school year, this collaboration will involve guiding IB Environmental Science Systems students through ongoing research projects conducted by the University System of Georgia.

As part of this initiative, Sol. C. Johnson High School educators, including Principal Derrick Muhammad and teachers Camilo Gamboa, Carlton Middleton, and Aasha Beard, along with Amanda Fanelli, IB Coordinator, were invited to conduct zooplankton research 50 miles offshore in the Atlantic Ocean aboard the UGA Marine Research Vessel June 27-28.

Led by Principal Muhammad and supported by SkIO scientists Dr. Adam Greer and Dr. Marc Frischer, our educators immersed themselves in firsthand research experiences aimed at enriching future classroom lessons. They actively participated in collecting and analyzing plankton samples, observed marine life in its natural habitat, and assisted in deploying scientific instruments.

This initiative not only enhances our educators' professional development but also promises to invigorate our science curriculum with practical insights into marine ecology. As these educators prepare to share their experiences with our students in the upcoming school year, we believe this story showcases Sol C. Johnson High School and SCCPSS's dedication to innovative education and impactful partnerships.  We are enthusiastic about the potential this partnership holds for future collaborations and educational opportunities.

Link to original story on the UGA SKIO website: https://www.skio.uga.edu/2024/07/15/johnson-high-school-educators-join-cruise-on-the-r-v-savannah/