VERO BEACH — Archie Rea of Vero Beach, a sophomore at Saint Edward’s School, has been accepted into Students on Ice, an international youth experiential education program to Antarctica to learn about environmental issues.
The expedition takes place December 27, 2013 through January 10, 2014. Every year the program accepts less than 100 students from around the world to participate in this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
“The program builds on the education and experience of individuals to help them lead in their respective fields as they go on into the world. The expedition selects students and leaders each year from around the world.
We are thrilled to have Archie on board with us. His leadership and experience are a perfect match to the work that we do,” said Clare Glassco, Outreach Coordinator with Students on Ice.
Students on Ice is a unique initiative dedicated to taking students from around the world on unique learning expeditions to the Arctic and Antarctic. The ship-based International Polar Year Antarctic Expedition employs modern icebreakers as home.
It is the only organization in the world that offers an opportunity for students to be immersed in ‘hands on’ research activities and lectures, taught by polar experts, educators, and researchers.
“I am excited and inspired by the natural environment and think it is important for my generation to learn about sustainability. I think that the hands-on learning of the expedition will teach me about world issues in a new and different way, and I want to be able to share what I learn with other students at my school and in the community when I get back,” Archie explained.
Archie is approaching local businesses and organizations, as well as individuals in the community, to help support the expenses of the trip.
Archie has lived in Vero Beach for 15 years, and in addition to his studies at Saint Edward’s, he works as a swim instructor, lifeguard, and has been volunteering with Florida Outdoor Center for three years.