On September 16, Corpus Christi ISD’s Maritime Studies program received a $25,000 grant from the Port of Corpus Christi. The district will use the grant to buy experiential learning materials such as ship models, plotting and navigational tools, engineering simulators and educational field trips. The added resources will help students connect theory with hands-on application.
“This grant will provide great opportunities for our students,” said CCISD Superintendent of Schools Dr. Roland Hernandez. “We appreciate the Port’s investment as we begin this exciting new program.”
Students start the four-year program by learning foundational information, including nautical terms, ship parts and crew positions. As the program progresses, topics become more complex, and students delve into learning about shipping logistics and regulations. During their junior and senior years, students complete an internship and practicum with local organizations, such as the Port of Corpus Christi.??
“In recent years, the Port of Corpus Christi has experienced record growth, clearly demonstrating the need for a robust maritime workforce,” said Port of Corpus Christi Director of Community Relations Rosaura Bailey. “We are confident that our partnership with Corpus Christi Independent School District will support our mission to spark interest in the 98,000+ Port-related jobs located in our region.”
CCISD created the Maritime Studies program to capitalize on the increasing job opportunities the city’s natural resources and the Port of Corpus Christi offer. Housed at Mary Carroll High School and serving as a regional hub, the program is open to all district high school students and students residing outside of district boundaries. Students in the program acquire marketable hard and soft skills they can apply to many Coastal Bend industries.
“Maritime studies is all about understanding the intersection of commerce and the sea,” said Vincente Carreon, CCISD maritime instructor. “From logistics to the health sector, many local businesses touch on the topics students learn in the program.”
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