The Maritime Academy of Toledo seeking new students

Toledo, OH – Quincy Cunningham was once a shy kid who struggled with reading comprehension. Now, after four years at The Maritime Academy of Toledo, he will graduate at the top of his class and is planning to attend Central State University. His mom, Patrece Tolbert, credits the one-on-one attention and the hands-on learning experiences he received at the academy for his success.
“They don’t teach to just one student, they teach to all students, at their level,” she said.
Quincy’s story is one of many taking place at The Maritime Academy of Toledo, one of the area’s newest tuition-free public school academies for students in grades 5-12.
The academy recently leased the state-of-the art facility located at 803 Water Street, Toledo, owned by The American Maritime Officers Plan. Complete with a boat-building lab, two maritime navigation simulators and hospitality amenities, the facility offers students a rigorous education using maritime/nautical-focused themes throughout traditional subject areas, as well as hands-on learning and leadership opportunities.
Middle- and high- school-aged kids can study marine ecosystems, simulate navigation of a Great Lakes freighter and learn to play the steel drums in the school band, all while preparing for college and possibly a career in the marine industry.
“We support our students with individualized attention and hands-on learning opportunities that keep them engaged,” said founder and Superintendent Renee Marazon. “Our challenging curriculum and strong code of conduct set high standards for our kids, and they make us proud each and every day.”

The academy was first founded in 2005. Since then, enrollment has grown to roughly 250, with openings for another 200 students. The school currently has a staff of 30, including the nation’s only career tech licensed teacher who happens to be 100-ton licensed sea captain as well.
The curriculum at the academy focuses on one of the world’s most valuable resources – the navigable waterways of the Great Lakes; its islands; rivers; ecosystems; recreation; and impact on the local economy, food chain and food supply.
The Maritime Academy of Toledo is one of only 18 maritime academies in the United States. It is the only one on the Great Lakes and the only middle school-high school combination.
Spots are available for new students. Parents wanting to tour the building or obtain more information on how to enroll their student should contact the academy at 419-244-9999 to arrange for a tour and a meeting.
The academy also serves an important role in helping retrain adult mariners and those seeking to begin new careers in the maritime industry.
In the coming months, The Maritime Academy of Toledo Foundation will hold its inaugural Cruise Ship Administration, Accounting, and Purser Training (CSAAPT) seminar. The CSAAPT seminar will be the first of its kind in the country and has the potential to employ a significant number of unemployed Northwest Ohio workers.