More than 650 fifth-grade students participated in a hands-on water education festival at the Vidinha Stadium soccer fields in Kauai on March 15, 2024. The event, titled “Make a Splash with Project WET,” was organized by the Department of Water (DOW) alongside various community partners. This festival aims to enhance students’ understanding of water-related issues, preparing them for the resource challenges of the future.
Project WET, which stands for “Water Education Today,” adheres to the Common Core Standards, Next Generation Science Standards, and STEM Educational Coalition objectives. The program empowers educators to engage young people in addressing local and global water challenges through a comprehensive curriculum. This year’s festival marks its 20th anniversary, making Kauai the sole island in Hawaii to host a one-day water education event specifically for fifth graders.
DOW’s commitment to water education is evident, with Joe Tait, DOW’s manager and Chief Engineer, stating, “We hope to inspire them to protect, conserve, and best manage Kauai’s water resources for generations to come.”
Students from various schools, including Elsie Wilcox Elementary School, Hanalei Elementary School, and Kekaha Elementary School, participated in eight different activity stations. These stations were guided by the Project WET Foundation’s curriculum and instructed by professionals from the water department, community groups, and specially-trained cadets from the Kapaa High School JROTC.
Engaging Activities and Community Involvement
Topics covered during the festival included the water cycle, source pollution, groundwater extraction, and the impact of consumption on local water supplies. One of the standout activities was “The Long Haul,” a competitive bucket brigade-style event that brought laughter and camaraderie among participants. DOW professionals joined in the fun, resulting in a lively atmosphere filled with enthusiasm.
The festival benefited from the support of numerous partner agencies, including Aqua Engineers, the Catholic Charities of Hawaii, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration-Kauai Marine Mammal Response Program. These collaborations exemplify a strong community commitment to promoting environmental education and stewardship among Kauai’s youth.
By fostering an understanding of water resources, the Make a Splash with Project WET festival not only educates students but also aims to cultivate a sense of responsibility for the environment. Such initiatives are crucial in addressing the pressing water challenges that communities face today and will continue to face in the future.
