Classrooms and students throughout the Cayman Islands have dived into conservation by taking part in this year's Grouper Moon Project! While the Nassau Grouper were spawning during the January full moon, REEF and the Cayman Islands Department of Environment partnered to host three livesteam sessions as an opportunity for students to interact with Grouper Moon Project researchers, learn about pathways to becoming marine scientist, and share the importance of collaboration to protect endangered Nassau Grouper. This year marked highest livestream participation rate to date, with more than 12 classrooms tuning in. Students observed researchers conducting a dive on Little Cayman's Bloody Bay Wall, and even asked questions while the scientists were underwater!
In the months leading up to the field season, REEF Grouper Moon Educator Todd Bohannon made several visits to Caymanian schools to share lessons and connect with local teachers to help them prepare for the livestreams. Shortly before the Nassau Grouper began spawning, Cindy Shaw, author and illustrator of the young adult book Grouper Moon, visited several Year 4 classrooms on Grand Cayman and Little Cayman to teach students about scientific illustration and Nassau Grouper. The students loved participating in the workshops and learning how to draw this iconic species.
We are very thankful to Backscatter Underwater Photo and Video, Ocean Technology Services, and Tom Sparke for the significant support and technical expertise that helped make the livestreams a success. Special thanks to the Cayman Islands schools participating in Grouper Moon Education 2024, including Cayman Int'l School (primary and secondary schools), Cayman Prep Primary, Cayman Prep HS, John Grey HS, West End Primary, Island Primary, Spot Bay Primary, Red Bay Primary, and Prospect Primary. We look forward to "seeing" everyone underwater again during the Grouper Moon Project 2025!