Friday, February 14, 2025

Applications open for Aquarium Scholar grant

An aquarium scholar at the Roanoke Island Aquarium. (Courtesy NCA)

NEW HANOVER COUNTY — Applications are open for a limited time for the Aquarium Scholars grant program, which offers funding for students from Title I schools to access North Carolina Aquarium programs at little to no cost.

The program endeavors to remove financial barriers that may prevent underserved students from experiencing the aquariums firsthand. Activities include a field trip to one of the three aquariums or Jennette’s Pier, an outreach program at the school with hands-on learning and ambassador animal encounters, or a distance learning virtual program with an aquarium educator. Regardless of the school’s location, a program is available that will engage and inspire students.

Aquarium Scholars is a partnership between the North Carolina Aquariums, North Carolina public schools and the nonprofit North Carolina Aquarium Society — made possible through the generosity of private donors.

“The fabulous programs offered by the North Carolina Aquariums bring the wonder of our ocean to life, support curriculum goals and inspire students to conserve our natural world,” Liz Baird, president and CEO of the North Carolina Aquarium Society, said in a press release. “We are grateful to the many donors who make the Aquarium Scholars program possible.”

Since its inception in 2018, Aquarium Scholars has distributed more than $520,000 in grants, giving educational opportunities to more than 69,000 students from 78 counties across the state. These grants have funded over 400 field trips, more than 180 outreach programs in classrooms and over 220 distance learning programs.

The application period began on May 31 and continues until September 15. Teachers from Title I or Title I eligible schools can learn more and apply at http://ncaquariums.com/aquarium-scholars.


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