On May 16, the Lauralton Hall oceanography class led by science teacher April Kelley was awarded a certificate of participation for completing the global initiative, Challenge 20, sponsored by the National Association for Independent Schools.

Challenge 20 is based on Jean-François Rischard's book "High Noon 20 Global Problems, 20 Years to Solve Them."

 In this project, students were challenged to investigate and help solve one of the 20 problems explored in Rischard's book.

The oceanography class, partnered with Admiral Farragut Academy in St. Petersburg, Fla. and the Al Hekma International School in Bahrain to investigate the causes and potential solutions for marine pollution.  The three classes communicated through a student designed and maintained project wiki.  Through their work together not only did the students learn about their topic, they learned about the similarities and differences between their cultures and made some new friends.  

Kelley hopes to continue working with NAIS on Challenge 20 in the upcoming school year.

Editor's note: All information in this post was contributed.