What We’re Working on
Atlantis S.T.E.A.M. leads hands-on, community-centered projects that bring real-world science, engineering, and creativity to students of all ages. Each project is designed to support local ecosystems, expand STEAM access, and strengthen our island community.
Experience Hands-On Science
Join us in creating projects that strengthen our community, expand STEAM access, and support local environmental stewardship.
Whidbey Island Marine Data Project
Plankton ID Project
Pay-it- Forward Escape Rooms
Whidbey Island Marine Data Project
Launching Summer 2026
The Whidbey Island Marine Data Project will create an open, real-time window into the health of our local waters. Beginning at the Langley Marina, students and volunteers will install a network of electronic monitoring stations across key locations including the Coupeville Wharf and Oak Harbor Marina.
Each station will collect vital ocean data—temperature, pressure, and salinity—and transmit it live to a public, open-source website. Students, community members, researchers, and local agencies will all have access to this data, supporting stewardship, education, and informed decision-making.
Whenever possible, stations will also include underwater cameras, offering a live-stream glimpse into the vibrant marine life beneath Whidbey Island’s surface. This project aims to deepen community connection to our ocean ecosystem and inspire thoughtful care for the waters that surround us.
Plankton ID Project
Atlantis S.T.E.A.M. is working with the Island County Marine Resources Committee, Sound Water Stewards, and SoundToxins to create a laminated “Plankton ID” guide for students and educators. Based on the “MacGuides” developed by Ash Bystrom’s former high school marine biology teacher, this tool helps learners quickly identify the plankton species found in our local waters.
The guide supports classrooms, field trips, and citizen-science projects that study plankton and microplastics using nets, microscopes, and water sampling tools. With a simple, accessible reference in hand, students can confidently contribute to community science while building foundational skills in marine biology.
Pay-It-Forward Escape Rooms
Twice a year, Atlantis S.T.E.A.M. hosts community escape rooms designed, built, and staffed by our competition team students and volunteers. Using a “donate-what-you-will” model, these events give Whidbey Island families an opportunity to enjoy a fun, challenging, family-friendly experience — without the typical $40+ per-person cost.
This project not only makes enrichment activities more accessible, it also empowers students to develop leadership, creativity, and real-world project management skills. Funds raised support our robotics teams and help keep all Atlantis S.T.E.A.M. programs financially accessible for underrepresented students.
Help us Empower the Next Generation of Innovators
Your support keeps our programs accessible for every student—no matter their background.
Join us and help us bring hands-on STEAM learning, environmental science, and real-world robotics opportunities to more young people.
