Project COMPASS After-School Program
BMC’s Project COMPASS addressed the need for positive after-school activities for teens which focuses on job skills development. Project COMPASS taught teens how to write resumes, fill out applications, seek employment opportunities, and prepare for interviews.
The kids learned the real world application of math and science in BMC’s boat shop construction projects as well as aboard BMC’s floating classrooms. While underway on BMC’s vessels, whether sailing, rowing or paddling, students were engaged in inquiry-based learning focused on navigation, physics, and environmental science. They learned the value of teamwork, perseverance, problem-solving, and cooperation.
After school is when teens are most likely to engage in risky behaviors including drugs and sexual activity, and be subjected to violence and abuse. At best, for many, it is unstructured and unproductive time.
Project COMPASS apprentices got outside, sailing, learning to use real-world tools while engaged in boatbuilding and other construction projects, and improving their chances of finding employment. The sailing and boating component added an element of adventure as well as physical activity and skills development.
Too often kids turn to risky behaviors to satisfy their need for real adventure. These skills led to new job acquisitions and students feeling more connected to their community while developing a positive sense of future.
Rowing practice begins on shore.
This is the first rowing experience for most of these students. Boat Builder, Jodi Carpenter, serves as coxswain.
The St. Ayles Skiff crew row past our neighboring Tall Ship, the Brig Niagara.