Pixel International Conferences

H2O to Go! is a dynamic residential program in which high school students are immersed in a summer institute of learning that is a highly replicable model. H2O to Go! provides a learning experience focused on studying water-related environmental issues. During a week-long program, students work with scientists and educators in the field of environmental research to learn about the research process and the interconnectedness of South Florida water systems along with the corresponding environmental issues. Connecting students with various research centers that study components of a local watershed (such as the Riverwoods Field Lab on the Kissimmee River) forges an understanding of the system by focusing on the interrelatedness of its parts. The knowledge and awareness gained inspires responsible personal behavior as it relates to water stewardship and community-based service projects aimed at the protection of water resources. H20 to Go! provides a working model for other university, school and environmental center partnerships. The replication possibilities for this model can be applied to any university conducting research on environmental issues. With the increasing competition between universities for quality students, there are significant recruitment gains in opening university opportunities to students contemplating post-secondary education programs. The immersion of students in such a program can demystify the college experience and provide opportunities of access to educational avenues previously undiscovered. Most importantly, scientists have the opportunity to share their passion with the next generation, increasing the probability of future interest in the work to which they have dedicated their lives. The H2O to Go! presentation will showcase the educational gains and outcomes of the program along with program & financial sustainability, communications, collaborations and lessons learned.

Keywords: H2O to Go!; environmental research; collaborative partnerships;