Bob Thomson
Bio: Bob, an educator at Sanborn Elementary School in Ossineke, Michigan, works with the Michigan Sea Grant, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Huron Pines AmeriCorps and the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary to guide his students in learning about the Thunder Bay watershed beyond the classroom. The students perform water quality testing, study macro-invertebrates, learn about and experiment with zebra mussels, and have created three Remote Operated Vehicles. Through these experiences, Bob's students gain teamwork skills, learn new technological skills, study science and data in a new way, and make connections within their local watershed and surrounding community.
One fifth-grade student said the project changed his point of view. "I have never liked coming to school, except this year," he said. "Working in the river and on the research project made me want to come to school."
Bob also works with the different agencies involved to create a sustainable program from year to year. The project was initially supported through the Northeast Michigan Great Lakes Stewardship Initiative.
Master Skills: Youth Voice, Program Development
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