A new charter school program designed to teach students about the marine industry is set to open next month in Palm Beach County, Fla.
The Riviera Beach Maritime Academy is an expansion of an 8-year-old magnet program at Palm Beach Lakes High School. It will be funded by N.J.-based Viking Yacht Co., the Palm Beach Post reports.
So far 65 students are enrolled, but the goal is to open with 100 students. Eight teachers currently are on staff at the academy, which is leasing a 4-acre site from the city.
Viking officials told the newspaper they expect to spend about $2 million to open the charter school, including site work, new buildings and equipment.
Students will learn how to navigate, build and repair boats, and receive training on topics such as woodworking, marine electronics, port operations and nautical science.
The expectation is that some students will pursue post-secondary marine programs, while others will go into the workforce.
The Marine Industries Association of Palm Beach County founded the original magnet program. Enrollment climbed to 150 students, but the program outgrew its space and resources, according to reports.
