Bailey O’Reilly

O’Reilly’s innovative teaching idea, “Connecting to Culture,” combines science, survival skills, disaster preparedness, Indigenous knowledge, local culture and physical activity. The program is designed to provide students in the adventure recreation class at Kodiak High School with hands-on learning experiences that connect relevant concepts to the learning process. While students actively engage in hands-on learning and skill building activities, the deeper purpose of the project, according to O’Reilly, is to help students find meaning and relevance in their learning. Through their participation, students will earn several certifications that can support employment opportunities beyond high school, while simultaneously gaining specialized knowledge tied to their physical environment. O’Reilly plans to use the Voya grant to purchase 10-15 inflatable paddle boards and potentially more life jackets.