Weekly roundup: Ocean Institute to host college and career fair, OCTA says kids can ride free, and more

Ocean Institute in Dana Point plans to host a Virtual Marine and Environmental Sciences College and Career Fair on Saturday, March 12.

Sponsored by the Surf Industry Members Association, or SIMA, the free, interactive event will run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., giving high schoolers and community college students the chance to learn about higher education options and career paths in marine and environmental sciences.

The virtual fair is set to feature student and alumni panels, live presentations, small-group chats, and exhibitor booths from Cal Poly Humboldt, Stony Brook University and the University of New England.

“Last year was the first time we offered this type of event,” said Dr. Wendy Marshall, Ocean Institute president and CEO. “Because of the success we experienced with over 1,100 participants, we wanted to expand our 2022 fair by offering deep dives into various career pathways.”

SIMA Executive Director Vipe Desai, who is also an Ocean Institute board member, said his association is excited help introduce young people to career paths connected to “the blue economy.”

“Creating on-ramps for young people to get involved in the ocean — whether through recreation, education or career development — can only help to protect our marine environments,” Desai said.

For more information, or to register, visit the Ocean Institute website.

And here are some of the other stories we’re following this week:

  • [Updated at 8:30 p.m.] One student was arrested following a stabbing at Trabuco Hills High School in Mission Viejo that sent a student to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries, the Orange County Register reported.
  • A successful pilot program offering free bus rides to children and teens in Orange County will be made permanent, the Orange County Transportation Authority announced. Riders just have to obtain a Youth Ride Free pass, which can be picked up at most K-12 schools or mailed to homes upon request.
  • A panel of speakers shared their personal stories and perspectives on the histories and contributions of Black Americans during an online colloquium hosted by County Superintendent Dr. Al Mijares in honor of Black History Month.
Ryan Nelson with students
  • Students at Whitaker School in the Buena Park School District had the opportunity to interview a district alum who will enter the 2022 NFL draft as an offensive lineman from the University of Virginia. Ryan Nelson talked about his journey as a scholar athlete and how his teachers, family and education paved the way for his success.
  • And finally, the OCDE Newsroom produced a less-than-three-minute video that explains what county offices of education are and how they support school districts, students and families throughout the state.

This is the part where we encourage you to keep up with local education news stories by bookmarking the OCDE Newsroomsubscribing for emailed updates and following us on FacebookTwitter and Instagram.