MOA-Preparatory Magnet (MOA-PREP)

The focus of the Marine (Science) Oceanographic Academy (MOA-Prep) magnet program at Forest Grove Middle School is to emphasize marine science education and its application to the real world through hands-on learning and field experiences.

The program exposes students to environmental issues and fosters marine stewardship.  It is our goal that our students become proactive in their community to preserve and protect their local habitats.

MOA-Prep students are exposed to a wealth of science-related activities and educational opportunities.

The Marine Oceanographic Academy Prep Program (MOA Prep) is a specifically directed program of preparatory studies for a limited cohort of grade 6-8 students who have been selected for potential transition to the upper level Marine and Oceanographic Academy of Harbor Branch at Florida Atlantic University.

MOA Prep is a district middle school attractor program. It is offered to students in St. Lucie County who demonstrate an aptitude in science and academic ability by scoring high on standardized tests and maintaining a high standard of behavior in school.

  • Students are chosen from the entire St. Lucie School District and are bused to Forest Grove.
  • Students chosen must perform at levels 4 or 5 on the FSA English/Language Arts and Math assessments and obtain a recommendation from their current science teacher.
  • They should show an interest in research within the science fields of marine and plant biology, oceanography and environmental science.
  • MOA Prep involves students directly with their surrounding environment and enhances science content within the standard curriculum.
  • Students take advanced classes in math, language arts, science and social studies and take the MOA Prep class as a science elective.

For more information on MOA Prep or to find out how you can help, contact Priscilla Griffin at Priscilla.Griffin@stlucieschools.org

In 2008, Forest Grove Middle School opened our first MOA Prep program with over 100 students.

Upon successful completion of all three middle school years of the MOA prep program, students may attend the prestigious Westwood (West Prep)-Harbor Branch MOA program.

 

MOA Prep’s emphasis on community involvement and interaction is for the purpose of building communication, science and math skills by teaching St. Lucie County’s brightest and best students about aquaculture, coastal habitats, water quality and marine life.

Students go on field trips to local research and oceanographic institutions; Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute, The USDA Agricultural Research Lab, The Smithsonian Marine Ecosystem Exhibit, Florida Oceanographic Society, University of Florida Aquaculture facility, area parks and water attenuation facilities.

MOA Prep students hear speakers with expertise in related fields; Harbor Branch and related organizations, The USDA research institute in Ft. Pierce, Ocean Research and Conservation (ORCA), and The University of Florida.