Hi My name is John. I have kept fish tanks for many years and presently have a 220 reef and two smaller frag tanks in my home. In my classroom I have another frag tank that I use for teaching STEM. I am currently developing a program that will put reef tanks into many more classrooms.
My program is called Coral Reef To Classroom and is dedicated to teaching kids science, technology, engineering, and math using a living model of a coral reef. Our initial class includes 6 students who will meet for 10 sessions. We meet at the middle school they attend. The tank is a 30 gallon frag that contains anemones, soft corals and two clownfish. The kids are amazed when watching splitting anemones and clownfish behavior. The related science topics are endless!
I've become a member for a number of reasons. The first reason would be to reach out to the people with the most experience and knowledge about keeping reef aquariums. I am looking to put the class in touch with the experts. Secondly, I hope to find a source for livestock and equipment. This is a STEM class and students will be encouraged to design and figure out ways to improve aquarium products. Please don't discard your extra DIY materials, consider donating them. Donations of frags and old equipment would also help us out. Third, a good STEM program should include entrepreneurship. I am hoping one day some of you will consider participating in frag swaps organized by my students.
