“Many astronauts have said that when they look back at earth from the International Space Station, they realize how much they miss the simplest things - a ray of sunshine on their face, a swim in the ocean, wind in their hair - all which we can experience in our bay,” says Valeria Rodriguez, Science Teacher at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Day School. She is also a member of the Blue Scholars Initiative Steering Committee and has been an integral part of our strategic planning process over the last year. An astronaut at heart, Rodriguez views Earth as a spaceship, providing a critical life support system for its crew and, in turn, relying on the crew members to maintain their one and only Spaceship Earth. She used this invaluable perspective to begin this new school year with her students and, in the process, conduct an impactful Community Service Project (CSP).
In the weeks leading up to the start of school, Biscayne Bay experienced a devastating fish kill and algae bloom. Witnessing the catastrophe first-hand, Rodriguez decided to task her students with a letter writing assignment to address the issues and speak to the protection of the bay. In preparation for their first week of class, Blue Scholars and Rodriguez captured footage from the shores of Legion Park and spoke to Theo Quenee, of SENDIT4THESEA, to inform them about the issues and share tips to communicate their concerns. “For the youth, it’s important for them to express their concern for the future,” said Quenee. “You guys have a lot of power in your hands.”
Individually, her students mobilized, researched and wrote their letters to government officials, including the City of Miami Mayor, Francis Suarez. Working from a suggestion of Blue Scholars Initiative, some presented their letters through video. Altogether their hard work and powerful voices were sent off to city, county and state elected officials letting them know what really matters to these students.
Armed with a classroom full of new knowledge and instilled passion, Rodriguez then invited Mayor Suarez to join her students via Zoom to further discuss the issues. Their 25-minute virtual class is condensed here into just over three. Check it out!
Blue Scholars Initiative is incredibly proud of these young changemakers. Spaceship Earth continues its journey under the leadership of Captain Rodriguez and her skilled crew. We are all grateful.