THE HOME PORT LEARNING CENTER,  BELLINGHAM, WASHINGTON

    In 1993 the Juvenile Court of Whatcom County discovered that 55% of the 287 juvenile offenders that year were not enrolled in school. In order to address the needs of this population, the juvenile court started exploring alternative options and funding to give these teens an alternative to the street and get them enrolled in school.     Opening its doors in 1994 in response to our County Court's efforts, the Home Port Learning Center, Located in the Port of Bellingham's waterfront, formed as a transitional education program serving adjudicated and at-risk youth of Whatcom County.     Through experiental learning, students acquire academic, vocational and work readiness  skills. They are committed to the preservation of our maritime heritage, environment and the well being of our community...     Staffed by a highly competant  and motivated group of certified instructors working with "hands on" and academic curriculum, the Learning Center has achieved a remarkable student recovery average rate of 85% ...



THE BOAT "THE STEWARDSHIP" A  Student work in progress! 
Boat Length: 24 Feet
Beam: 8 Ft. Beam
Weight: Approximately 2000 Lbs
Configured for  single outboard propulsion, designed for 150 Hp 4 stroke outboard motor...
Construction:  Fiberglass over plywood,  Hull design - Shallow Vee with Soft Bow... And, "by the way" We sure do need donations for that motor! ..     Once completed the boat will be used as a platform for environmental studies, ecological remediation and other student projects that can enhance student education... The application of classroom math to practical navigation problems comes quickly to mind...
THE FLEET RESERVE ASSOCIATION, BELLINGHAM BRANCH 245 Our Bellingham Branch has for several years, proudly supported this very worthwhile youth activity with fund and material donations, technical instruction and public relations support...
THANKS TO Shipmates Barney Barrick USN Ret. and Vern Puckett USN Ret.

DUE TO THE DEPARTING OF THE USS FORD AND LOCAL SUPPORT I WILL BE ADDING PICS AND ARTICLES ON OUR CONTINUED SUPPORT FOR THE HOMEPORT LEARNING CENTER.