Last week, Marine Science 2 Honors students from Manatee High School visited the Mote Marine Aquaculture Research Park (MAP) in Sarasota.
This visit was part of the district's new Marine Science Career Pathway, allowing students to dive deeper into their study of aquaculture. Their curiosity and enthusiasm were contagious!
During the visit, students learned about the largest Red Drum (redfish) brooding-to-harvesting program in the U.S., and the risks of importing them from other countries.
They also observed different tanks of Snook, which are separated by size, and saw how daily metrics are taken, similar to their classroom activities.
They learned about the $10 Snook fishing permit, which exclusively funds programs that benefit the population. Plus, how MAP anesthetizes fish for medical exams.
There was a discussion with the CEO of an aquaculture business renting space at MAP.
The CEO shared how the company grew from a single tank, like the one in Manatee High's classroom, to a multi-million-dollar Red Drum program, creating jobs and expanding rapidly.
Students also explored various career opportunities in the industry, including biology, engineering, technology, and communications/social media.
They got a glimpse of the Stone Crab facility, where they learned that they're only harvested in the wild during a specific season and only for their claws.
Experts say developing an aquaculture program for Stone Crabs could reduce pressure on the wild population.
Funding for the Marine Sciences program at Manatee High School came from state allocation and millage funds dedicated to enhancing learning experiences for Manatee County students, and offering workforce ready programs.
The School District of Manatee County (SDMC) is home to truly exceptional schools rooted in a tradition of excellence.
Thanks to Curriculum Coordinator Amber Platowski for sharing this Good News.