The Maritime Engineering and Environmental Studies Academy (MEESA)

About MEESA

Maritime Engineering and Environmental Studies Academy (MEESA) is a college partnership lab school between Newport News Public Schools and Old Dominion University, designed to prepare students for high-demand careers in the maritime industry through hands-on, experiential learning. By blending STEM disciplines with Career and Technical Education, MEESA creates an engaging, real-world learning environment where students explore both traditional and emerging maritime pathways.

Through strong partnerships with industry and higher education, students gain access to internships, job shadowing, and authentic learning experiences that connect classroom concepts to real-world applications. With a focus on innovation, environmental stewardship, and workforce readiness, MEESA equips students with the technical skills, industry knowledge, and professional experiences needed to succeed in college and thrive in maritime careers.

Mission

MEESA is guided by a mission and philosophy that emphasizes (1) a commitment to excellence in education, (2) the critical nature of student active agency and student voice in learning, (3) experimentation with pedagogical approaches and experiential learning, (4) innovative approaches to professional learning and educator preparation, and the (5) integration of research and teaching.

Our mission is to inspire students as future leaders in maritime engineering and environmental sciences; provide a dynamic teaching laboratory for educators through innovative education, hands-on experiences; and collaborate around research to build and share knowledge of transformative practices.