Blue Schools Initiative | September Newsletter

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.

Blue Schools Pic


“Weโ€™re 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, weโ€™ll build community prosperity, foster environmental stewardship, and create a strong, sustainable maritime economy that benefits everyone. Learn more.




Blue Schools Impact

North Olypen
D95ebffb D2db 1d3b Eafb 111c82cba043

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 Sโ€™Klallam Tribeโ€ฆ 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

Whatcom

Buoyant Beginnings- Ripple to Wave 

Senator Murray talks with local maritime workers 

SeaFeast Save the Date- September 26-27th 

Bellingham SeaFeast Creative Currents

Maine

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

Operations
Construction
Resources

Want to get involved or learn more?

Contact Katelyn Kean at katelyn@nwmaritime.org