Accokeek Academy PGCPS

As part of the PGCPS Air Quality Professional Learning Community, Accokeek Academy seeks a grant from YLACES to acquire low-cost air quality monitors that will empower 90 students to collect data, analyze and research, and advocate for cleaner air in their community. This initiative will engage middle school students in hands-on environmental research, allowing them to measure pollutants such as particulate matter and carbon dioxide levels in and around their school. By integrating this real-world data into science lessons, students will develop a deeper understanding of environmental health and its impact on their daily lives. With the support of YLACES, students will not only gain valuable data analysis and STEM skills but also become advocates for meaningful change. They will share their findings with local stakeholders, fostering discussions on air quality improvements and environmental responsibility. This project will provide students with the tools and knowledge to make science actionable, use data to conduct research, and inspire them to pursue careers in environmental science while making a tangible difference in their community. The grant will provide one indoor and one outdoor Kaiterra monitor supported by a dashboard for sharing data.