Miles' Study Abroad-Great Barrier Reef

Ever since Miles was 9 years old he has loved free diving, holding his breath and diving deep down into the ocean to commune with fish and marine life. The ocean has been his happy place and sanctuary. Loving the sport, and the ocean, and caring deeply about global marine ecosystems, he has seen firsthand how delicate reefs right off the coast of O'ahu are easily destroyed by over-tourism and climate change.

Now as a freshman in high school, Miles has an amazing opportunity to learn how to help protect the beloved oceans.

Miles's high school has offered an extraordinary 10-day long "Impact Term" course this January 2023 where students get to study special interest subjects outside of the classroom. Spaces were extremely limited and students grades 9-12 competitively applied.

Miles applied for and was CHOSEN as one of 15 students to study CLIMATE CHANGE at the GREAT BARRIER REEF, both in coral bleaching underwater and its effects on terrestrial rainforest habitats.

We need help in making this happen for Miles. Here is what the learning experience will include:

Miles' class will travel to North Queensland, Australia, home to both the Great Barrier Reef and the ancient Daintree Rainforest, to learn important lessons about innovative solutions to climate change and traditional approaches to land stewardship. Due to global climate change and coral bleaching in recent decades, The Great Barrier Reef is an oceanscape that is rapidly disappearing. This is a chance to explore the reef during multiple dives and learn from expert divers and marine biologists about steps that are being taken to prevent the rapid loss of marine biodiversity. Above the water, the Daintree region encompasses a unique ecosystem that has existed for millions of years, with white sandy beaches and fringing reefs just offshore. It has been called home by Aboriginal Australians for thousands of years; students will have the opportunity to engage with the Mandingalbay Yidinji people, the traditional owners and custodians of this land, to learn about the cultural significance of the environment and their relationship with the land and sea. The course goal will be to find practical ways to apply the lessons learned during I-Term to our own fragile ocean and terrestrial ecosystems back home in Hawai’i.

Key learning objectives:

The Cost

Miles and his family appreciate the support from friends, family, and any benefactors who can donate to make this opportunity happen. Every dollar gets him closer to this incredible opportunity. Thank you!