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Students, faculty and administrators at Whittier Regional Vocational Technical High School gathered at Clean River Project’s headquarters last week to witness the installation of two river booms paid by a student-led initiative.
The booms, used to collect debris and help protect the Merrimack River, bear the Whittier Tech and Wildcat logos—symbols, school officials said, that represent the school’s growing commitment to environmental stewardship.
“It feels amazing to know that something we helped raise money for is now out on the river making a difference,” said Hailey Rocker, an 11th grade student from Haverhill. “Seeing the Whittier logo on the booms made it all feel real—like we’re part of something bigger than ourselves.”
Building on this momentum, Whittier Tech SkillsUSA is planning to deepen its involvement with the Clean River Project during the next school year. The student team will shift focus to researching and raising awareness about microplastics—tiny plastic particles that pose a growing threat to aquatic ecosystems and water quality. Their work will include public education campaigns, scientific research, data collection, and potential innovations in water filtration or cleanup technologies.
“The boom project was just the beginning. Our students are already asking what’s next,” said Jane Moskevitz, allied health instructor and lead SkillsUSA Advisor. “Tackling microplastic pollution will give them a chance to dive into scientific research, environmental advocacy and technical problem-solving—all while continuing to serve their community.”
Other students involved were Helen Batista Paniagua, Gavin Becker, Julianna Curran, Carlos Dominguez, Maya Lique, Kiara Maldonado, Madison Nadeau, Madison Pare and Alexis Rodis, all of Haverhill, and Adrian Angeloni and Mia Medierios of Rowley.