Middle and high school teachers train on the value of these ecosystems and the challenges they face
San Juan, Puerto Rico, September 9, 2026 – Dozens of middle and high school teachers participated in the educational workshop "Learn About Our Coral Reefs and Their Benefits," where they expanded their knowledge of these ecosystems and gained tools to share with their students. The initiative aims to strengthen scientific education about the importance of coral reefs and the challenges they face.
During the session, participants learned more about coral reproduction, the benefits reefs provide, and the main challenges they face, including rising ocean temperatures and the effects of climate change.
The event took place at the Centro Criollo de Ciencia y Tecnología del Caribe (C3Tec) as part of the 25th anniversary initiatives of the Sociedad Ambiente Marino, and was driven by its School Chapter (CeSAM), together with teacher Ketsy Torres, of the Escuela Especializada en Tecnología Gerardo Sellés Solá in Caguas.
"Every teacher who participates has the opportunity to bring this knowledge to their students and multiply the message about the importance of knowing and protecting our marine resources," said teacher Ketsy Torres.
The workshop's scientific component was led by Prof. Fabiola Rivera Irizarry, marine biologist and Vice President of SAM, who emphasized the importance of educating about the challenges reefs face.
"Our reefs serve an essential function and face major challenges. Educating people about what's happening is fundamental to promoting their conservation," said Rivera Irizarry.
As part of the event, participants also had access to educational and informational tables from the Department of Natural and Environmental Resources (DRNA), Sea Grant, Arrecifes ProCiudad, and student chapters, among other resources. The event was held through a collaborative agreement with C3Tec.
"For 25 years, we have brought together science, education, and conservation. Reaching teachers allows us to extend that knowledge to new generations and strengthen their commitment to our marine ecosystems," said Samuel Suleimán, Executive Director of the organization.
ABOUT SOCIEDAD AMBIENTE MARINO
Sociedad Ambiente Marino (SAM) is a nonprofit organization committed to the conservation, protection, and restoration of coral reefs and other coastal ecosystems in Puerto Rico through education, research, and community action initiatives.
To learn more about SAM, its projects, and its marine environment conservation and restoration efforts, visit www.sampr.org.