This summer has brought incredible momentum to the Blue Schools Network. Across Washington, Maine, and beyond, communities are creating new partnerships, launching programs, connecting workforce, and providing hands-on projects that strengthen connections between communities and the sea. It’s exciting to see so many pieces coming together as we continue building a network that creates opportunities for youth, supports local communities, and grows the future maritime workforce.
- A Fresh Look for Blue Schools We’re excited to introduce the new Blue Schools logo! As the network expands across new communities, the refreshed brand provides a shared identity that connects partners working toward the same goal: creating stronger connections between communities, maritime careers, and the sea.ย
- Oysters travel from Jefferson County to Whatcom Waters. This summer marks another milestone as oyster restoration efforts continue! Working with vessel support from partners at Northwest Indian College; Northwest Maritime, Jamestown S’Klallam, Puget Sound Restoration Fund, and the Whatcom Marine Resource Committee planted over 413,625 of oysters in Chuckanut Bay! (See below)
- Northwest Maritime has been awarded $1.5 million in Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) to advance the Blue Schools Initiative, strengthening connections between communities, careers, and the sea across Washington State. Thank you to all who supported the CDS request for the Blue Schools Initiative, especially Senator Cantwell!
- Submit a proposal for our Maritime Workforce Demand and Pipeline Assessment
- Shout-out to our friends at Port of Long Beach for their incredible Academy of Global Logistics! Last week, the Academy of Global Logistics hosted a back-to-school BBQ to welcome students back to campus.

“Weโre really big on building a strong sense of community within our CTE pathways, and this was a perfet way to make students feel welcomed, cared for, and excited for the year ahead.”
– Port of Long Beach
What is the Blue School Initiative?
The Blue Schools Initiative connects students and their communities with the maritime world, building a sense of belonging and inspiring care for our waters as well as opening doors to maritime careers. By breaking down barriers and working to include everyone, weโll build community prosperity, foster environmental stewardship, and create a strong, sustainable maritime economy that benefits everyone. Learn more.
Blue Schools Impact


Olympic Oyster Outplanting: Where Maritime Education Meets Ecosystem Restoration
Back in the chilly days of January, our team of hatchery directors, shellfish biologists, and maritime educators from Puget Sound Restoration Fund (PSRF), Jamestown SโKlallam Tribeโฆ Keep Reading
PTMA Student Shares Their Firsthand Experience
No Summers Off For These Folks
Program to Bring Job Skills to Students Across Peninsulaย ย
Congresswoman Emily Randall hosts Maritime Listening Roundtable

Buoyant Beginnings- Ripple to Wave
Senator Murray talks with local maritime workers
SeaFeast Save the Date- September 26-27th
Bellingham SeaFeast Creative Currents

UMaine Blue Economy Week- September 30th- October 2nd
Maine Martime Castine Teaching Vessel
Are We Losing the Next Generation by Being Too Vague?
If you have a story of success or opportunities that you would like to share, please submit the idea, link to the posting, or reach out using this form.
Our Pathways
Want to get involved or learn more?
Contact Katelyn Kean at katelyn@nwmaritime.org






































