Innovative new program, KAMP Kenan, enables students to embark on virtual field trips to reputed southern Florida reptile conservatory
Senator Jeff Klein, joined by school administrators and local teachers, announced $865,000 in state funding toward Project BOOST (Building Options and Opportunities for Students), an academic and cultural enrichment program, at a welcome back dinner on Tuesday night at F&J Pine Restaurant.
Part of this year’s funding allocation will support an innovative new program where Bronx students can take virtual field trips to a reputed southern Florida reptile conservatory. KAMP Kenan, founded by former BMX professional Kenan Harkin, allows students access through video conferencing to Kenan’s refuge for hundreds of reptiles, and to take part in active investigations with alligators, iguanas, pythons and tortoises.
“Over the years Project BOOST has had a tremendous impact on students in The Bronx by enriching classroom instruction. This year I’m excited to announce this exciting new offering with KAMP Kenan that will allow students to get an immersive experience with reptiles without having to leave the classroom. I look forward to hearing about the experiences these students have in the coming months,” said Senator Klein.
Project BOOST, run by the Center for Educational Innovation-Public Education Association (CEI-PEA), provides academic enrichment opportunities to elementary and middle school students who have demonstrated academic talent, but come from disadvantaged neighborhoods. Project BOOST currently operates in 41 schools across the 34th Senate District – providing essential funding for class trips, arts and drama programs and computer science and technology labs.
