Breaking Barriers to the Ocean through Your Shores

In collaboration with Ocaquatics Swim School and Ripples of Impact, 27 local high school students received free, professional swim lessons, giving them the skills and confidence they need to move forward with scuba training. For many, this is the first step toward a future in science and environmental stewardship.

Tackling Systemic Barriers

Launched in 2023 by Frost Science’s Museum Volunteers for the Environment (MUVE) and Upward Bound Math and Science (UBMS) programs, Your Shores addresses the real challenges that prevent underserved youth from entering marine science. With funding from the Office of Habitat Conservation at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the program provides scuba certification, hands-on coastal restoration projects, and immersive exploration of South Florida’s unique ecosystems, from mangroves to coral reefs. But there was an immediate obstacle: many students didn’t know how to swim.

According to USA Swimming, nearly 80% of children from households with an annual income of less than $50,000 have little to no swimming ability. Without this foundational skill, scuba certification—and the opportunities it brings—was out of reach. That’s where the partnership with Ocaquatics and Every Child A Swimmer began in 2024, providing free lessons to 20 students. Thanks to continued support from Ripples of Impact and Ocaquatics, this year’s program grew to include 27 students.

Empowering Students, Inspiring Futures

“At Frost Science, we believe that access to the wonders of science and the opportunities it brings should be available to all,” says Dr. Analisa Duran, Knight Sr. Director of Science Education at Frost Science. “Your Shores is about breaking down systemic barriers and empowering young people from all backgrounds to see themselves as scientists, explorers, and environmental stewards.”

The impact is already visible. Last year, nine students earned their scuba certification, including seven who began with swim lessons through Your Shores. Students like Alexandra Pierre, a junior at North Miami Senior High, have discovered new passions:
“I didn’t know how to swim, and now I want to swim with the fish and explore the ocean. I would have never thought I would be getting my scuba certification by the end of the summer.”

This year, three students have achieved their scuba certification, and four returning participants, including Alexandra, earned their Advanced Open Water Certification.

Building a Culture of Stewardship

Ocaquatics Swim School, with its Tropical location hosting the lessons, is deeply committed to environmental and community impact. Through its nonprofit Ripples of Impact, Ocaquatics funds scholarships and supports initiatives like Your Shores, amplifying opportunities for equity and conservation.

“We’re thrilled to partner with Frost Science for the second year of the Your Shores program,” says Miren Orca, CEO and founder of Ocaquatics. “These are more than just swim lessons; they’re experiences that foster confidence, connection to nature, and a deeper understanding of the environment. When children and young adults learn to love and explore the water, they’re more likely to want to protect it.”

Learn More

Your Shores is more than a program—it’s a pathway to possibility, helping young people see themselves as future scientists and environmental leaders.

To learn more about Your Shores, visit frostscience.org/yourshores. For more information on Ocaquatics and Ripples of Impact, visit ocaquatics.com and ripplesofimpact.org.