PACERS and its partners are developing model aquaculture programs and a supporting network in member schools distributed geographically throughout the state. Present sites include new and upgraded programs in high, middle, and elementary schools. Programs may range from simple to complex units. PACERS provides professional consultants, workshops, teacher support, and teaching materials essential for the program and start-up funding for installing recirculating systems. During 2008-09 systems were operated at Gaylesville and Florala High Schools, Florala Middle School, and Loachapoka Elementary. A new program was started at Flomaton HS in 2008-09 and work is underway for adding a system at Section HS. Schools/communities interested in the program should contact admin@pacersinc.org

In addition to the relevance of aquaculture in a water-rich state like Alabama, the aquaculture program is sponsored by PACERS because of :

• The proven capacity of aquaculture units to serve as living labs in which students gain competence in science, develop academic interest and post-secondary/career options. In the program students become de facto fish biologists and are required to master related science tools and concepts necessary to raise healthy fish.
• The significant opportunities it provides for young people to gain business/entrepreneurial skills, to learn to meet deadlines, and to work collaboratively with others.
• The training, support, and post-secondary connections provided by the programs’s professional consultants.
• The programs connect communities, schools, and students and to the PACERS rural network and to supporting post-secondary institutions.
• The extensive career and business options in aquaculture.
• The program’s ongoing potential for creating information that is locally relevant and for involving local farmers and businessmen as volunteers.

How: Aquaculture programs are established in schools in collaboration with PACERS community groups that work collaboratively with PACERS and its partners and the local school. Local PACERS organizations are required to:

• Provide support for the aquaculture project and any other PACERS’ project they undertake locally. Support includes in-kind and funding assistance, simple project documentation, and participation in project training.
• Take part in PACERS statewide activities including conferences, advocacy initiatives for rural schools and communities, and resource development.
• Recruit PACERS members and volunteers.
• Pay annual community/school dues--$250.00

• Provide space for the project.
• Offer academic classes and opportunities through the aquaculture program.
• Provide teacher-led project coordination.

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