Kelly Czermerys, a Biology teacher at the Center for Innovative Teaching & Learning (CITL) at Port Ewen, was selected as one of only 12 educators nationwide to participate in an exclusive program that connected students with scientists stationed in Antarctica. This unique opportunity allows students to engage in real-time discussions with researchers studying one of the most extreme environments on Earth.

Czermerys first learned about the program last summer while participating in the BioRETS program at the Cary Institute, where she spent six weeks conducting field research alongside leading scientists. Building on that experience, she integrated real-world data analysis into her curriculum using the Code app, aligning lessons with the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). Students in Grades 9-12 enrolled in CITL at Port Ewen’s Maple Program—including those studying Earth Science, General Science, and Animal Science—took part in the initiative.

As part of the initiative, students participated in a live Zoom session on February 13 with two scientists from the Palmer Station in Antarctica. Ulster BOCES was one of only three schools included in the session. 

Leading up to the call, the students studied the region’s unique wildlife, such as penguins and seals, while analyzing climate change data that directly connected to their Earth Science curriculum. Prior to the call, the class also had the opportunity to submit up to ten questions for the scientists. During the call, about 15 students were selected to ask their questions. Among those selected were four curious CITL students.

 “This experience allowed our students to see science in action. Connecting directly with researchers in Antarctica gave them a real-world perspective on climate change and the importance of scientific inquiry. They weren’t just learning from a textbook—they were engaging with experts actively studying our planet’s changing environment.”  Czermerys said.

This initiative provided students with a rare opportunity to engage with cutting-edge scientific research, apply real-world data analysis skills, and gain a deeper understanding of climate change’s global impact.