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STEM at Chadwick immerses students in exciting and experiential learning that prepares them for success out in the real world.

Chadwick Ocean Institute

Shaping the Next Generation of Ocean Stewards

Since our founding, Chadwick students have been learning by the sea. Today, the Chadwick Ocean Institute serves K-12 students, educators and the broader community, building strong foundations in ocean science, research and sustainability while fostering a lifelong love for the ocean.

Through collaboration with leading ocean experts and engaging with immersive learning experiences, students become informed ocean advocates and leaders, equipped to tackle critical issues and thrive, guided by the belief that “the future is blue!” 

Chadwick and AltaSea: A Groundbreaking Collaboration

The Chadwick Ocean Institute is the first and only K-12 school to establish a permanent learning space at AltaSea — a world-class center for marine research, sustainability and technological innovation located in the Port of Los Angeles. 

AltaSea’s 35-acre seaside campus features state-of-the-art laboratories, research facilities and collaborative workspaces where students get to exchange ideas with renowned ocean experts, researchers and entrepreneurs. From exploring local ecosystems to championing global conservation, this immersive program brings Chadwick’s experiential learning model to life. 

AltaSea’s founding partners are at the forefront of marine biology, oceanography and environmental science. AltaSea brings together institutions such as the Southern California Marine Institute, the Annenberg Foundation and the Port of Los Angeles, as well as research collaborators like the University of Southern California and CalTech — uniting academia, industry and philanthropy in a shared mission to advance marine science and sustainability.

 

 

 

Dr. Dijanna Figueroa

 

Together, we are building a community where science fuels business, innovation drives sustainability and students are at the forefront of preserving our planet’s resources.

Real-World Learning and the "Blue Economy"

AltaSea is at the forefront of the burgeoning “blue economy” — an innovative sector that responsibly leverages the ocean’s resources with economic opportunity. By attracting champions from across the corporate, academic, civic and philanthropic sectors, AltaSea envisions a dynamic campus where education, business and science merge to inspire future generations. 

Here on the AltaSea campus, Chadwick School has created:

  • The Chadwick Ocean Institute Community Learning Lab, or "The Co-Lab" — a dedicated learning space whose programs are already priming the next generation of ocean explorers for meaningful breakthroughs in research, discovery and inspiration.
  • Ocean STEAM Programs including youth, school, academic, and community learning opportunities that explore ocean science and sustainability through the lens of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics. 
  • The Chadwick Marine Explorers Summer Intensive for students in middle in high school. 
  • Immersive Global Programs including travel to all parts of the world.

The Community Learning Lab (Co-Lab)

The Co-Lab is a vibrant hub for ocean innovation where students, scientists, entrepreneurs, educators and policy shapers converge to explore new frontiers in marine science and technology.

As the connection between Chadwick’s academic environment and the scientific community at AltaSea, the Co-Lab is a natural extension of the classroom, giving K-12 students a home with broader horizons for hands-on learning.

The Co-Lab is a unique opportunity to give local schools access through K-12 outreach programs, providing students from the greater Long Beach and Los Angeles area the chance to engage in and address some of the most pressing ocean issues.

STEAM Learning through Hands-On Ocean Science, Research and Sustainability

Here, students explore the wonders and mysteries of the ocean up close, applying advanced science and technology to tackle real-world challenges. Through this hands-on experience, they cultivate innovative and adaptive thinking skills to address complex issues with confidence. They also connect on site with leading scientists, researchers, and entrepreneurs in the "blue economy," gaining insight from experts at the forefront of oceanography and access to the latest resources and discoveries.

By observing the work of these ocean leaders, students can imagine themselves taking their own steps toward ocean stewardship because they are already observing, calculating and dreaming as ocean scientists. 

Marine Explorers Summer Intensive Program

Chadwick School's Marine Explorers Intensive is a thrilling program where students earn their SCUBA certification, partner with world-class scientists and explore the breathtaking kelp forests of Catalina Island. Discover the wonders of marine science, tackle real-world environmental challenges and become a certified Ocean Ambassador. Click below to learn more and secure your spot today.

LEARN MORE AND REGISTER

Chadwick Ocean Institute

Global Travel
Global Travel
Engaged Learning At AltaSea
Engaged Learning At AltaSea
On Site With Eco Experts
On Site With Eco Experts
French Polynesia Ocean Exploration
French Polynesia Ocean Exploration
Studying Ocean Sustainability
Studying Ocean Sustainability
Paddling With Purpose
Paddling With Purpose
Collaborating at the Co-Lab
Collaborating at the Co-Lab
Scuba Certification
Scuba Certification
Surveying Sea Kelp
Surveying Sea Kelp
Examining Marine Fossils
Examining Marine Fossils

Chadwick Ocean Institute Leadership

Dr. Dijanna Figueroa
Acting Director of the Chadwick Ocean Institute

Danielle Quinto
Innovation and Design Instructor