Aquatics Program Proves Innovation & Engagement
Cloquet School District // Cloquet Area Alternative Education Program // 2024 Innovation Program Award Winner
In the halls of education, where innovative teaching methods can transform lives, the Aquatics Program at the Cloquet Area Alternative Education Program led by Rod Syck is making waves. This extraordinary program is more than a class—it is a living, breathing ecosystem of learning that engages students, instills responsibility, and teaches life skills that go far beyond the school day. For these reasons and more, it deserves recognition as a beacon of innovative education.
The Aquatics Program began humbly with simple projects, such as studying and breeding betta fish and maintaining tanks. But under math teacher Mr. Syck’s guidance, it has evolved into a dynamic course offering cross-curricular learning that integrates math, science, art, and language arts. This unique fusion of subjects is possible thanks to a special state-approved permissions license that allows students to earn academic credits across multiple disciplines. This integration showcases the program’s ability to cater to a wide array of interests, making it a magnet for students of different backgrounds and strengths.
What sets this program apart is its impact on students’ personal growth. “This aquatics class is the only reason I came to school today,” one student confessed, echoing a sentiment shared by many others who find a sense of purpose and community within its framework. Students arrive early, stay through lunch, and prioritize their involvement. It’s a space where learning happens organically. As one participant put it, “It’s more fun. I mean, it’s learning, but it’s hands-on. You don’t really tell it’s learning.”
The program teaches more than just how to care for fish; it fosters essential life skills like time management, perseverance, and accountability. One student shared how their experience helped overcome procrastination, learning to complete tasks on time and develop a proactive mindset. Another reflected on the unexpected joy and confidence they discovered: “I never thought that fish were going to be something I’d be interested in… it kind of just gave me a little hope, like maybe I will be good at other things and I’m just too scared to push myself out there.”
The classroom itself is an incubator for teamwork and restorative practices. Students work together on maintaining the aquatics environment, ensuring the well-being of their aquatic charges and collaborating to solve problems as they arise. This fosters a culture of empathy, where students support each other and learn to navigate challenges, including the loss of fish. Mr. Syck highlights that students learn resilience: “You lose fish, to find joy, to support each other.” These lessons, though born in an unconventional setting, resonate deeply and prepare students for the realities of life beyond school.
Perhaps most inspiring is how the program nurtures responsibility and respect for life. “Fish get me up in the morning,” one student shared. “Being responsible for life, like taking care of it and watching it grow… it’s beautiful.” This sense of responsibility carries over into students’ daily routines, making them more attentive, considerate individuals.
The Aquatics Program is not just an educational course; it’s a transformative experience that cultivates character, community, and curiosity. For its ability to engage students at such profound levels and teach lessons that last a lifetime, the program stands as a model of what innovative education can achieve. With the continued support and recognition that come from accolades like this, the Aquatics Program is poised to expand its impact and inspire even more students to dive into new challenges with hope and enthusiasm.
Congratulations Cloquet School District on earning the 2024 Innovation Program Award. The Aquatics Program at Cloquet Area Alternative Eduaction Program was honored and celebrated in November at the MREA Greater Education Summit at Cragun’s Resort in Brainerd.
