December 16, 2021, by admin

The Sitka Sound Science Center (SSSC) has received a grant from Royal Caribbean Group supporting the Scientists in the Schools (SIS) program this year. SIS is one of the Science Center’s flagship programs and is a part of the science curriculum of all students in Sitka.

The SIS program brings working scientists into each Sitka classroom every year. Sitka Sound Science Center education staff works with teachers and administrators to assure scientists make suitable age group grade-level visits, assist with meeting state science standards, and develop engaging and age-appropriate lessons. This award-winning program exposes every Sitka student to new scientific disciplines, research ideas, basic scientific concepts, and educational and career paths. 

“This uniquely collaborative program brings teachers and scientists together to expose Sitka kids to a wide range of science-related careers and provides these students the opportunity to interact with professional working scientists,” said Janet Clarke, SSSC science education director.  “Working side by side with scientists using authentic science research skills can have lasting positive impacts on a student’s educational and career trajectory,” she said. 

“Scientist in Schools creates unique memories and inspires Sitka youth, much like the Sitka community inspires and creates incredible memories for our guests,” said Helen O’Connell, associate vice president, Community Engagement, Royal Caribbean Group. “We are proud to support community-based initiatives such as this that reinforce our efforts to foster science education in the communities we visit.” 

SIS began 25 years ago with the University of Alaska Southeast and has developed into a carefully coordinated K-12 fundamental part of the science curriculum at the Sitka School District and Mt. Edgecumbe High School.

SSSC staff and board are excited to have Royal Caribbean Group as a new patron for Scientists in the Schools, one of Sitka Sound Science Center’s flagship programs.