A ‘Magic’ BioBus is teaching kids about the environment at Astoria Houses

Students learn about marine ecology at the BioBus Mobile Research Lab. Photo via NYCEDC.

By Phineas Rueckert 

It may not fly, but it’s giving Queens students wings — by helping to advance educational equity borough-wide. This week, BioBus, a New York City Economic Development Corporation initiative aimed at bringing environmental education to local students, parked at Hallets Cove to begin its four-week summer stay in Astoria.

At BioBus, students learn about marine ecology, peer through telescopes and conduct research projects based on the cove’s natural ecosystem. 

“BioBus is an amazing program that exposes New York City students of all ages to the wonders of science,” said Councilmember Costa Constantinides, who represents Astoria, Jackson Heights and Woodside in Queens. “Too often, children sadly don’t have a connection with or understanding of nature – even the ecology within a city – which is what BioBus aims to change.” 

In addition to teaching students about marine environments, the project aims to inspire local students — many of whom live in the Astoria Houses — to pursue further studies in Science, Technology, Math and Engineering fields. 

Research shows major racial and economic divides in access to STEM education nationwide that begin at an early age. One longitudinal study found that students from low-income communities were half as likely as their wealthier counterparts to pursue a career in STEM.

“This is an enormous opportunity that may inspire the next generation of scientists or environmental advocates,” said Claudia Coger, President of the Astoria Houses Tenant Association. 

The BioBus will be open and free to the public on Mondays and Tuesdays through August 13.