Eight students and four chaperones from Niceville High School's NaGISA program recently returned from an extraordinary 11-day journey to Japan over Thanksgiving break. Representing the only high school in the United States affiliated with the NaGISA program, the group attended the 2nd World Congress of Marine Stations in Shizuoka, Japan, where they presented their groundbreaking work on marine biodiversity.
NaGISA, which stands for Natural Geography of In-Shore Areas, is a Japanese-based international collaboration aimed at inventorying, cataloging, and monitoring the biodiversity of in-shore areas. In Japanese, NaGISA means "where the land meets the sea." Niceville High School's NaGISA program has been at the forefront of this initiative, with over 20 years of contributions to marine science. Their presentations at the World Congress were designed to showcase their achievements and inspire other high schools around the globe to join this critical effort.
The students departed on Nov. 21, and arrived in Japan the following day. Before heading to Shizuoka, they explored Tokyo, visiting historical and cultural landmarks. On Nov. 28, students Jocelyn Wheeler, Noah Stickler, Hannah Castor, and Sasha McCraine participated in a "poster session," presenting the NHS NaGISA program's collection and analysis protocols. In this science-fair-like environment, they engaged with attendees from top universities worldwide. Seniors Lily Suttlemyre, Craig Falzone, Jacob Milz and sophomore Julia Milz delivered the main presentation titled "The Northwest Florida NaGISA Program as a Blueprint for Scientific Outreach." Their presentation highlighted the history and success of the NHS NaGISA program, detailed their innovative "Sandy Beach" protocol, and encouraged other high schools to contribute to marine biodiversity research. The students were accompanied by Mr. Richard Hernandez, Teacher of the Gifted at NHS and NaGISA advisor, Mr. Patrick Cole, a social studies teacher at NHS, and Savannah Mikus, a former NHS NaGISA student who is now an adjunct lecturer of Japanese culture at the University of Florida, along with her husband, Jacob Mikus, a registered nurse. Mrs. Mikus served as the group's interpreter and tour guide, enhancing the cultural and scientific experience for the students.
"This trip offered these students the rare opportunity to present alongside counterparts from some of the world's leading universities," said Richard Hernandez. "Our students' contributions left a lasting impression on the eminent scientists in attendance, and they showcased their scientific expertise, demonstrating the excellence of Niceville High School and the Okaloosa County School District." Niceville High School has since been accepted as an entire World Association of Marine Stations member, joining a prestigious network of over 800 marine stations worldwide. The school's program has also been invited to the next World Congress of Marine Stations in two years and asked to contribute to the Atlas of Marine Stations.
Superintendent Marcus Chambers praised the students' accomplishments: "This trip exemplifies our students' incredible opportunities to engage in world-class learning experiences. The NaGISA team's dedication and passion exemplify the excellence we strive for in Okaloosa County. I am so proud of their achievements and the way they represented our district on an international stage."
Through months of preparation and hard work, these students brought global recognition to their program, their school, and the Okaloosa County School District. Their journey is a testament to the power of education and the impact of students who dare to dream big.
Photo Caption: Pictured Left to Right: Lillian Suttlemyre, Jacob Milz, Julia Milz, Mr. Richard Hernandez, Hannah Castor, Jocelyn Wheeler, Sasha McCraine, Craig Falzone, and Noah Stickler
