CUNY – High School Initiative in Remote Sensing of the Earth Systems Engineering and Sciences (HIRES) – A College Readiness Secondary Education Model - 10 years in Retrospect

The CUNY High School Initiative in Remote Sensing of the Earth System Engineering and Science (HIRES) is an innovative educational program aimed at introducing high school students to remote sensing and Earth system science. Through HIRES, students engage in hands-on learning experiences, utilizing cutting-edge remote sensing technologies and data analysis techniques to explore environmental changes and their impacts on the Earth's systems with a focus on NOAA mission enterprise. The program emphasizes the integration of STEM education and practical research opportunities with a focus on real-world environmental issues related to climate, water, weather, ocean and impacts on the communities. The program provides students with mentorship using the peer-based vertical mentoring model – engaging faculty experts and independent research projects, inclusive and equitable training and learning environment. This presentation will highlight the program's impact on fostering STEM interest among high school students within the five-boroughs of New York City, and share success stories from student-led research, and discuss the future of the program in cultivating the next generation of Earth scientists and engineers.