Dr. Carl Stepath received the first David S. Boynton Educational Grant. His project, “Our Oceans, Our Future,” focuses on the research of marine debris with middle school students. During the school year 2009-2010, students will perform beach transects, collect data,
Dr. Carl Stepath received the first David S. Boynton Educational Grant. His project, “Our Oceans, Our Future,” focuses on the research of marine debris with middle school students.
During the school year 2009-2010, students will perform beach transects, collect data, and pick up marine debris. Students will be shown how debris is transported from Kaua‘i via a Matson container to O‘ahu and finally burned by H-Power O‘ahu to produce electricity.
“This activity and interaction enables students to witness the creation of a new type of solution cycle, such as taking beach rubbish and turning it into a positive energy solution,” Stepath said in a press release.
Presentations will be shown to other classes, including the Environment Club at Kaua‘i Community College.
The David S. Boynton Educational Grant was established in memory of David Spalding Boynton, educator, author, photographer, and advocate for the protection of the environment in Hawai‘i. Grants up to a maximum of $1,500 each will be awarded to educators or students age 18 or older and residents of the State of Hawai‘i.
A completed application form, a letter of recommendation, a proposed budget, and a 1,000-word project proposal are due by Dec. 15 to the Koke‘e Discovery Center Association, Inc.
Topics that will determine the recipients of the grant are: (1) awareness, conservation, protection, and preservation of the unique environment of Hawai‘i (preferably involving Kaua‘i); (2) teaching and inspiring children to respect and nurture their environment and gain ecological literacy; and (3) Hawaiian cultural values such as malama, kokua, laulima, kuleana, lokahi, and pono.
For more information, contact Cheryl Shintani at 808-742-6838 or by e-mail at cheryls@hawaiilink.net.
