About the Marine Academy of Technology & Environmental Science

Opened in September 2001, the Marine Academy of Technology and Environmental Science (MATES) , is a specialized high school administered by the Ocean County Vocational Technical School District. A competitive shared-time marine science program for high school juniors and seniors has been established since the fall of 1994 . Both programs are open to students throughout Ocean County. Qualified s students can also earn college credits through Ocean County College. MATES graduates usually pursue careers in the natural science fields by attending competitive colleges. This active program focuses on major concepts and requires a motivated, enthusiastic learner. It is supported by numerous marine and environmental experts, agencies, and learning institutions throughout the east coast.

 

“Barnegat Bay is our classroom”

The 2008 summer program includes hands-on field, research, and laboratory instruction in Marine Science that meets New Jersey Core Content Standards in Science which includes instruction in math and English. Students will get a jump on preparation for a solid science background, which may help them on the Grade Eight Proficiency Assessment (GEPA). Students will be able to work in the field, learn about the local species, conduct a major research project, and gain a better understanding of the many aspects of both marine and environmental science. Students will be exposed to research techniques, ecology and our traditional Marine Science program. The cost for the entire week is only $150.00 for field activities that will include daily field visits:

• Collection and identification of both marine invertebrates and vertebrates
  
• Hands-on activities about Barnegat Bay and the coastal area
  
• Water sampling and monitoring using proper field techniques with equipment

Topics Covered in the 2008 Marine Science Research Experience

Research Experience

• Catch & Identify Plankton on the Bay
  
• Invertebrates of the Atlantic Coast
  
• Fish and Sharks of the east coast
  
• Birds, Reptiles and Marine Mammals
  
• Salt Marsh Ecology and how they work
  
• Barnegat Bay Estuary habitat including eel and widgeon grasses
  
• Bottom-dwelling organisms (Benthos)
  
• Learn and do proper sampling methods including seining, trawls, and traps
  
• Proper use of water sampling equipment and water testing kits
  
• Work with Diamondback Terrapins, ongoing research in Barnegat Bay
  
• Currents and erosion patterns along the shore and coastal upwelling
  
• How to maintain a salt water aquarium and species of your own!
  
• Causes and ways to improve human impacts on the Barnegat Bay ecosystem
  
• How to conduct a field, team project
  

Who should apply?
Students who are presently enrolled in grades six ,seven and eight who have a serious interest in marine and environmental science. This competitive program is limited to 25 students per week.

How to apply:
ll applications will be reviewed and will be notified on a rolling basis. Applications should be sent to the address listed on the application. Participants are responsible for transportation to and from the Center. Lunch, water and snacks are the responsibility of the participants.

Sessions will be one week in duration.
The weeks are July 14, 21, 28 and August 4, 2008. The hours of the class are 7:45 AM - 2:45 PM daily. The summer program is located at our MATES facility at 195 Cedar Bridge Road in Manahawkin, New Jersey 08050.

Dates of the Barnegat Bay Summer Experience
All times are 7:45 AM to 2:45 PM

Session 1: July 14—18
Session 2: July 21—25
Session 3: July 28— Aug. 1
Session 4: Aug. 4— 8

For more information about MATES please contact us at: mates@mail.ocvts.org or If you have questions about the summer experience, call (609) 978-8439 ext. 4002

Note: Please complete the following application. In addition to the application, please forward a copy of your most recent report card, one letter of recommendation, an essay response to the question on the application, and a $150.00 check payable to OCVTS. Completed applications should be mailed to: Marine Academy of Technology and Environmental Science Ocean County Vocational Technical School 195 Cedar Bridge Road Manahawkin, NJ 08050 Attn: Summer Experience 2008 MATES Application (PDF: 14KB / 1page) Download Now !!