On April 22, St. Thomas Aquinas High School hosted its second annual Earth Day event, continuing to grow a tradition empowering environmental awareness and student engagement. Organized by Mrs.Basi, the event brought together multiple organizations to educate students on sustainability, innovation, and protecting the planet.
One of the highlights of the event was the participation of APH Marine Construction, a company that sparked strong interest among students. They shared insights into their work installing hybrid seawalls, which combine advanced materials like reinforced concrete, vinyl, and fiberglass. These seawalls are designed to provide superior strength and long-lasting protection for coastal areas, which is a crucial topic for South Florida communities.
Students were especially intrigued by the information presented. “I didn’t know that fiberglass lasted that long in the ocean; it was an eye-opener,” said junior Shavis Linder Jr., reflecting on what he learned during the event.
The event also allowed students to perform hands-on activities that facilitated direct engagement with the organization. Additionally, another hot commodity at earth day was the student led face painting section. Students filled the lines waiting to brand with environmental caution signs or even sea and land creatures. Many appreciated the hands-on experience as well as the welcoming atmosphere. “I enjoyed the activities that the organizations allowed us to participate in, and I loved the free things,” shared sophomore Kassidy Bowe.
As STA continues to build on this Earth Day tradition, the event serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of environmental responsibility and innovation. By connecting students with real-world organizations and forward-thinking ideas in an engaging and meaningful way, the event not only educates but also inspires. It motivates the next generation to take an active role in caring for and protecting our planet.
