During the two-hour visit, Mrs. Prahar read a book on endangered sea turtles to 50 seventh and eighth grade students. She employed props that demonstrated the sea turtle’s life cycle, as well as enticed students “out of their shells” to participate in the reading.
Mrs. Prahar then spoke on the history of Earth Day, an event which launched the modern environmental movement. In 1970, some 20 million Americans publicly denounced increased pollution and deterioration, and demonstrated for a healthy, sustainable environment. Rising environmental awareness led the U.S. government to establish the Environmental Protection Agency in late 1970, and to enact the Clean Air Act of 1970 and Clean Water Act of 1972.
In the spirit of the 2010 Earth Day theme, “International Year of Biodiversity,” Mrs. Prahar utilized posters of endangered species and demonstrated the harmful effects of trash to promote the students’ awareness of the environment.
Mrs. Sparks donated waterproof backpacks, schools supplies, and sports equipment on behalf of the Coast Guard. She encouraged students to “study hard and stay in school,” as well as to utilize the sports equipment to maintain a healthy, active lifestyle. The Coast Guard Cutters Assateague and Sequoia are currently in Pohnpei to participate in Operation Sea Guardian, a maritime security exercise.
Mrs. Prahar and Mrs. Sparks also toured the school and the Early Childhood Education facility, both of which receive funding under the Compact of Free Association with the United States.
