The Junior Ocean Explorers (JOE) Summer Program is a continuous, 2 week, hands-on
marine science program for students in grades 3-6 interested in learning more about
our environment. JOE prioritizes teaching youth the basics and fundamentals of swimming
and snorkeling. Engaging youth at this age is pivotal to increasing their interest
in and curiosity within the marine sciences. Students can use the JOE program to enhance
their understanding and appreciation of the ocean and eventually participate in the
Youth Ocean Explorers Summer Program.
Meet Our Team!
Our team consists of several youth engagement professionals as well as students
that are hired each summer as program mentors.
Howard Forbes Jr. (MSc.)
Program Director
Designated Red Cross certified lifeguard and program lesson design lead
Jarvon Stout
Program Coordinator
Designated Red Cross certified lifeguard and program lesson facilitator
Amber Knight
Water Safety Instructor
Designated Red Cross certified Water Safety Instructor
Throughout the duration of the program, students learn the basics of water safety
skills as well as practice their animal identification skills.
Students are assisted by program staff to learn the fundamentals of swimming which
starts with activities such as 1) Combined leg and arm motions, 2) Floating, and 3)
Submerging their heads underwater.
Lessons are designed to be fun and engaging so that students are always having fun.
Pictured here is a student retrieving submerged treasure chests to test their ability
to put their head underwater, open their eyes, and navigate whilst underwater.
Students learn how to identify common marine invertebrates such as this friendly featherduster
worm. Knowing what animals live in our waters as well as those that could pose harm
Water safety skills also include knowing what animals live in
Students practice their free diving skills in a safe environment which enables them to explore more of our oceans. Students who are able to demonstrate their proficiency with swimming/snorkeling are eligible to apply for the Youth Ocean Explorers Summer Program, an educational experience like JOE, but for 4-continuous weeks.
Eligibility Requirements
- Open to youth in grades 3-6 (ages 7-11).
- Should have an interest in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics).
- Student must be able to attend the entire program. (Plan your vacations accordingly)
Program Structure
- Program operates for 2 weeks.
- The 2023 JOE session will be conducted from June 12-23.
- Students meet daily at UVI's Marine Science Center.
- Housing is not provided as this is not an overnight program.
Program Registration
- One-time registration fee of $100 which covers all program-related costs.
- Registration for JOE opens each year on January 1 and closes firmly on May 1.
Junior Ocean Explorers Registration
- REGISTRATION IS CLOSED UNTIL JANUARY 2024.
- The JOE application consists of 2 parts; the Parent/Guardian Application and the Student Application. Both must be completed and submitted before May 1.
- Completed applications will be reviewed after May 1st and selected students will be
notified via E-mail within the next 1-2 weeks (please check your E-mail regularly). We accept on average 15-20 students which is dependent on funding.
- Selected applicants will be provided with additional paperwork to complete such as photo and liability release forms as well as receive information on how to process payment at the University's Cashiers Office.
~ 5 minutes to complete
This portion of the JOE application process should be completed by the parent or legal
guardian and provides our team with important information such as the applicant's
t-shirt / shoe size, known allergies, and emergency contact information.
~ 1 day to complete
This last component of the JOE application should be completed by the applicant. It
contains 2 short essay questions that will provide our team with a better understanding
of an applicant's interest in the program and STEM.
<10 minutes to complete
If you are interested in being a mentor or swim instructor for JOE, complete this
application to join our team. Previous mentors have included high school, undergraduate,
and graduate level students. Mentors assist with day-to-day activities, provide guidance
and support to student participants, and are paid for their support of JOE!
Office Phone: (340) 693-1672
E-mail: St. Thomas (howard.forbes@uvi.edu)
Website: http://vimas.uvi.edu
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Virgin Islands Marine Advisory Service
Center for Marine and Environmental Studies
University of the Virgin Islands
St. Thomas
#2 John Brewers Bay
St. Thomas, USVI 00802