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The On-Water Classroom Program is an expansion of Rocking the Boat's On-Water Program, the initiative that provides hands-on environmental education programming to public school students. The Program dramatically increases the number of young people who are able to benefit from Rocking the Boat's resources. On-Water Classroom Program classes emphasize a sustained impact on public school students. Teachers are encouraged to enroll their
students in multiple day programs (of between three and six sessions) allowing them the opportunity to experience the Bronx River over
time, from different perspectives. The sustained nature of the program -- which runs during school hours as an integral part of
school -- makes it more likely that the River will become a more tangible part of each student's daily life.
The content, duration, and schedule of the program are developed cooperatively between Rocking the Boat staff and each teacher.
Thus, each group working with Rocking the Boat has its own unique curriculum tailored to the specific academic themes it is addressing
in class.
Offered to any high school class free of charge, the On-Water Classroom Program has served over 2,000 students-700 in the last year
alone. Each program can accommodate up to 25 participants, including
teachers or chaperones.
Programming time is divided between hands-on environmental science activities, and the practice of traditional maritime skills. The
maritime skills component is intended to endow students with the tools they need to explore and study the river at close range. Trips
out on the Bronx River led by Rocking the Boat's educators are part of every class.
Rocking the Boat also runs environmental programs for elementary school students throughout the Bronx. The After School Corporation
(TASC), NYC's leader in out-of-school program development, is Rocking the Boat's
partner in this initiative.
In addition to the concentrated work with schools and community groups, the On-Water Classroom Program also makes it possible for
individuals not affiliated with any organization to take part in a similar experience on the Bronx River. Every Friday afternoon Rocking
the Boat makes its boats and education staff available for walk up rowing and environmental programs open to the public.
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