Sail Academy Inwood is based on the same core outcomes as Sail Academy Chelsea, tailored for middle school students in Northern Manhattan, Harlem and the Bronx. HRCS partners with schools to offer sailing and leadership skills to students in a year-round after school program. They learn and apply STEM-based concepts to complete engineering projects and build wooden boats. On the water and in the classroom, boats are the platform for innovative problem solving and hands-on learning, providing a foundation for success in high school and beyond.
STEM Identity
Sail Academy fosters a greater interest in STEM subjects and environmental stewardship through unique and engaging projects and field trips focusing on natural sciences, engineering and design.
- Building and testing submersible remote operated vehicles (ROVs)
- Designing and building artificial reef habitats and birdhouses
- Collaborating to build a wooden sailboat
- Developing an understanding of real-world applications for their projects through field trips
Sailing
Students develop confidence and competence operating and building sailboats, and comfort with water-based activities. They learn the basics of sailing, including:
- Steering the boat and controlling the sails
- Safety protocols
- Proper terminology and knot-tying
No previous sailing experience is necessary and students don't need to know how to swim. Everyone is required to wear an HRCS-provided life-jacket (PFD) at all times on the water. Instructors are certified by U.S. Sailing and CPR and First Aid-certified.
Social Emotional Learning (SEL) and College + Career Prep
Sail Academy builds leadership skills including self-confidence, communication and teamwork. Supportive HRCS staff and volunteers help prepare students for success in high school, college and career, with a focus on the transition from middle school to high school.
- On the sailboat, students learn how to work with others to prep and rig boats, steer, and navigate. Sailing is the perfect platform for them to collaborate, solve problems, and support one another
- Off the boat, students take part in SEL activities that challenge them out of their comfort zone
- College and career support is available to all graduates (see Sail Academy+ below)
Partner Schools
Amber Charter School
Atmosphere Academy
City College Academy of the Arts
Kipp Beyond
Salomé Ureña Leadership Academy
Sail Academy+
While Sail Academy Inwood primarily serves students in grades 5-8, we are currently piloting Sail Academy+ for graduates of our middle school program.
Sail Academy+ students:
- Continue to build sailing and seamanship skills
- Represent HRCS as ambassadors
- Build hours toward internship opportunities including driving launch and supporting events
- Gain certifications offered by HRCS (including CPR and First Aid)
- Have access to College Access support offered in Sail Academy Chelsea
Shelter Island New Horizons
Shelter Island New Horizons is a joint program between Hudson River Community Sailing and Shelter Island Yacht Club.
Each summer, Sail Academy students get a break from the city, participate in Shelter Island Yacht Club’s Junior Sailing Program, and stay with host families on the island. The goal is to give HRCS students the opportunity to enjoy Shelter Island, build sailing and maritime career skills, and broaden their horizons and networks.