Quarterly Update from September 3rd -October 31st (Quarter 1)
By Nalani O’Brien, Maritime Education Instructor
It Is Just the Beginning!
The school year is off to a strong start at Maritime High School! Across all four grade levels, students are embracing hands-on, real-world learning opportunities that connect science, technology, engineering, and math to the maritime world. From kayaking local waterways to earning industry certifications, our students are charting their own course both in and out of the classroom.
9th Grade: Launching into Maritime Learning
Our newest class of 9th graders has already hit the ground running and the water! Early this fall, students explored the Duwamish River by kayak, learning about the river’s complex history and ecology while collecting data to understand the ongoing impacts of industry and the restoration efforts. This experience helped connect classroom lessons to the living maritime environment around them.
Looking ahead:
In the second quarter, our first-year students will continue their maritime journey as they work toward earning their Washington State Boater Education Cards, which will provide them with the knowledge and certification to operate watercrafts safely. Their maritime education is just beginning, and the horizon is wide open!
10th Grade: Taking the Helm on Admiral Jack
Our 10th graders just wrapped up an incredible nine weeks aboard our training vessel, Admiral Jack. Working in teams of five to seven, students learned what it truly takes to run a vessel from pre-departure checks to docking back at shore. They created detailed voyage plans, selected their own research sites, and conducted water testing and sampling throughout their journeys.
These experiences not only strengthened their understanding of marine science and vessel operations but also built teamwork, confidence, and maritime leadership.
Looking ahead:
As the year continues, sophomores will earn their First Aid, CPR, and AED certifications and begin hands-on projects in the shop, further developing the skills that will support their pathways in the maritime industry.
11th & 12th Grade: Pathways in Action
Our upperclass students are deep into their specialized maritime pathways and making impressive progress!
Vessel Operations Pathway:
Our 11th graders in Vessel Ops started the year strong, earning their Basic Training certifications from MITAGS (Maritime Institute of Technology and Graduate Studies). There, they donned immersion suits, practiced open-water survival, and even extinguished real fires in full turnout gear! They’re now continuing their coursework at Seattle Maritime Academy, focusing on maritime leadership and survival craft operations.
Meanwhile, our 12th-grade Vessel Ops students reached an exciting milestone: each has officially been issued their Merchant Mariner Credential as Ordinary Seaman! They’ve also participated in Classroom on the Water, a collaborative program with Washington State Ferries, gaining first-hand experience in ferry operations and vessel management. Seniors continue their classes at Seattle Maritime Academy as they prepare to launch into maritime careers.
Marine Construction Pathway:
We’re proud to have a large, enthusiastic group of 11th graders in our Marine Construction pathway this year. These students spend half their day at Vigor learning the fundamentals of welding and fabrication, then apply what they’ve learned through hands-on projects. Their dedication and craftsmanship are already shining through in their early work.
Marine Science Pathway:
Our 11th- and 12th-grade Marine Science students have been working diligently alongside Dr. Rosalind, advancing their lab research and fieldwork. They have also recently established a recognized student chapter of the Future Farmers of America (FFA), expanding their leadership opportunities and applied science programs. Stay tuned, as exciting projects are on the horizon for our Marine Science cohorts in the coming quarter!
Continuing Onward!
Whether they’re navigating local waterways, welding at Vigor, or researching marine ecosystems, our students are embodying what it means to learn by doing. With so much progress already made and even bigger things on the horizon, it’s clear: Maritime High School is full steam ahead!
Stay tuned for more updates throughout the year as our students continue to explore, discover, and lead in the world of maritime education.
