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Bayfront Alternative Education Program
The Bayfront Center for Maritime Studies has partnered with the Sarah A. Reed Children's Center to provide the Alternative Education Program for 8th -12th grade students from the School District of the City of Erie.
The Sarah A. Reed Children's Center is Erie's oldest social service organization, in operation since 1871. BCMS has been providing hands-on educational activities for students with Sarah Reed since beginning operations in 1998.
Proud boatbuilders with their first projects completed.
Working on a boatbuilding project helps a student to learn new skills including attention to detail, correct safety procedures, following directions and teamwork.
Learning new skills, building self confidence.
Hands-on activities are designed to help engage the students in their own education while teaching life skills and building positive relationships.
Special activities and guest speakers enrich the educational experience for these students.These included a visit from Dr. Joe Benamati, a nationally renowned consultant on alternative education, a performance by Carlos Ramires which focused on teens making smart choices, a chance to closely examine a Cuban refugee boat that six Cubans sailed to freedom in 1990, and an opportunity to work with a former BCMS Maritime instructor Kyle Rectenwald who is finishing his studies at the International Yacht Restoration School.
Dr. Benamati captivated the crowd.
Students and staff get a close up look at a Cuban Refugee boat brought to BCMS by volunteer Jerry Bien who directed its restoration at the Florida Maritime Museum in Cortez. Esperanza means hope.
Kyle worked with students in the boatshop.