NICEVILLE, Fla. — Students from Niceville High School’s NaGISA program showcased their marine science expertise on the global stage during an 11-day trip to Japan, where they attended the 2nd World Congress of Marine Stations in Shizuoka.
The group, consisting of eight students and four chaperones, was the only high school delegation from the United States affiliated with the NaGISA program, which focuses on inshore marine biodiversity.
Representing over 20 years of contributions to the initiative, the students presented research highlighting their innovative “Sandy Beach” protocol and the program’s broader success.
According to the Okaloosa County School District (OCSD), students Jocelyn Wheeler, Noah Stickler, Hannah Castor, and Sasha McCraine led a poster session showcasing collection and analysis protocols, while seniors Lily Suttlemyre, Craig Falzone, Jacob Milz, and sophomore Julia Milz delivered the primary presentation.
The latter, titled “The Northwest Florida NaGISA Program as a Blueprint for Scientific Outreach,” emphasized inspiring other schools to join the effort.
Chaperones included Richard Hernandez, NaGISA program advisor and Teacher of the Gifted, social studies teacher Patrick Cole, and Savannah Mikus, a former NaGISA participant and Japanese culture lecturer who served as an interpreter alongside her husband, Jacob Mikus.
“This trip offered these students the rare opportunity to present alongside counterparts from some of the world’s leading universities,” said Mr Hernandez.
“Our students’ contributions left a lasting impression on the eminent scientists in attendance, and they showcased their scientific expertise, demonstrating the excellence of Niceville High School and the Okaloosa County School District.”
Superintendent of Schools Marcus Chambers praised the students’ accomplishments.
“This trip exemplifies our students’ incredible opportunities to engage in world-class learning experiences,” said Mr Chambers.
“The NaGISA team’s dedication and passion exemplify the excellence we strive for in Okaloosa County. I am so proud of their achievements and the way they represented our district on an international stage.”
As a result of their efforts, Niceville High School gained acceptance as a full member of the World Association of Marine Stations, a prestigious network of over 800 institutions. The program was also invited to contribute to the upcoming Atlas of Marine Stations and to attend the next congress in two years.
The students’ journey, filled with months of preparation and exploration of Japanese culture, stands as a testament to their dedication and the transformative power of education, the OCSD said.
The extraordinary 11-day journey to Japan took place over the Thanksgiving school break.
