Massachusetts Maritime Academy and Buzzards Bay Coalition Enhance Education Through Maritime Heritage

The Massachusetts Maritime Academy (MMA) and the Buzzards Bay Coalition have successfully continued their partnership into a second year, providing an innovative outdoor learning experience for New Bedford public school students. This collaboration allows students from grades 3 to 12 to engage in educational day trips aboard the historic SSV Ernestina-Morrissey, where they explore Cape Verdean heritage, maritime history, and environmental science through interactive stations.

This year's program saw 650 students participating in 15 day trips, each designed to offer hands-on learning opportunities. Led by a team of educators and the schooner’s crew, students delved into the vessel's storied past, conducted water quality tests, and learned about navigation and the duties of a ship’s watch. The program not only enriches the students' understanding of maritime traditions but also fosters a deeper appreciation for environmental stewardship and cultural heritage.

Mark Rasmussen, president of the Buzzards Bay Coalition, highlighted the enthusiasm of the students and the significance of the program in connecting them with the maritime legacy of New Bedford and its ties to Cape Verde. Rear Admiral Francis X. McDonald of MMA emphasized the academy's dedication to experiential learning and community engagement, noting the importance of inspiring future generations through such immersive experiences.

The SSV Ernestina-Morrissey serves as a vital educational resource for MMA, supporting sail training, leadership development, and STEM education for cadets and the broader community. This initiative underscores the value of partnerships between educational institutions and non-profit organizations in creating meaningful learning opportunities that extend beyond the classroom.

For more information on the Buzzards Bay Coalition and its efforts to protect and promote the bay's health, visit https://www.savebuzzardsbay.org. Details about Massachusetts Maritime Academy and its programs can be found at https://www.maritime.edu.