YESS consistently receives more requests for BaySmart fieldtrips from schools and community youth groups than funding permits. In addition, while boats chartered for BaySmart fieldtrips are adequate, they were not designed to serve the purpose of a floating classroom as required by BaySmart. The two main goals of YESS are:

GOAL 1: EXPAND PROGRAM IMPACT
Expand and secure adequate funding to accommodate a minimum of 5,000 students annually.

While all students would benefit from the BaySmart experience, YESS currently focuses on fifth and sixth grade students. These students are eager, curious and receptive to the positive influences of the BaySmart experience. They are also susceptible to peer pressure relative to becoming involved in gangs, drugs and other unhealthy activities. These students are often pressed to make critical decisions that will affect them during the rest of their lives. Although BaySmart can never reach all students in need of its services, all students who are served can become a positive influence on their peers, thus multiplying BaySmart’s impact. Investing in the lives of these young people yields significant benefits.

GOAL 2: PURPOSE-BUILT BOAT
Build a specially designed BaySmart boat that will be a state-of-the-art floating classroom.

At the present time, YESS charters Coast Guard certified boats for its BaySmart program. This practice has limitations relative to availability, space and functionality. The proposed purpose-built BaySmart boat will have specially designed classroom space and an observation deck. Its hull design will provide a more stable platform in the open waters of Galveston Bay and its shallow draft will permit greater access to estuaries for the purpose of ecological studies. YESS is seeking partners and financial support to help make this BaySmart boat a reality.

LIMITATIONS
The only limitation for YESS is funding. Since YESS has a policy of not charging students for participation in its programs, it depends upon grants, donations and contributions for its continued viability, availability and effectiveness. Major efforts are being undertaken to provide local businesses, organizations and foundations with opportunities to help support the BaySmart program.

Become a BaySmart partner today!
Contact us at yess@yessonline.org
or call Dr. Huey Barnett at 281-326-1464

Learn More About Our Program Needs