By Kasey Commander, Director of Marketing & Communications
Pour friends at the New England Science & Sailing Foundation (NESS) in Stonington, CT recently launched The NESS Mobile Classroom, an innovative education initiative powered by the City of New London. This fully equipped mobile STEM lab is designed to deliver hands-on marine science, adventure education, and environmental programming directly to students and families across New London County.
The Mobile Classroom is a key step in NESS’s mission to provide equitable access to ocean-based experiential learning. By bringing the classroom to schools, libraries, parks, and community centers, NESS is removing geographic and socioeconomic barriers to education, ensuring more students can benefit from immersive, high-quality STEM experiences.
“This is more than a classroom on wheels,” said Spike Lobdell, NESS Founder & CEO. “It’s a bridge to opportunity. We’re making science engaging, accessible, and mobile, reaching learners who might not otherwise have access to these types of experiences.”
Outfitted with advanced educational tools – including an interactive smart board, collapsible whiteboard desks, microscopes, a wash station with running water, and more – the vehicle is a self-contained, flexible learning space ready to adapt to a wide range of environments and age groups.
“NESS continues to be a vital partner in serving New London’s youth and helping them build brighter futures through meaningful, hands-on learning,” said Mayor Michael Passero. “The City of New London is proud to support the launch of NESS’s Mobile Classroom. This innovative platform strengthens our shared commitment to educational access and opportunity.”
The NESS Mobile Classroom complements and expands NESS’s long-standing work with New London. Together with a growing network of community collaborators, NESS provides ocean-based education, environmental stewardship, and adventure learning through the following partnerships:
• City of New London
• New London Recreation Department
• New London Youth Affairs
• New London Public Schools
• The Drop In Learning Center
• B.P. Learned Mission
• The Salvation Army
• Safe Futures
• The Light House
These partnerships reflect NESS’s commitment to inclusiveness, accessibility, and long-term impact in the New London community. NESS is a nationally recognized, award-winning nonprofit that empowers students with a love of learning through ocean-based experiential programs. Accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC), NESS serves students of all ages through sailing, marine science, and adventure sports. To learn more, visit NESSF.org. ■
