The Virgin Islands Children’s Museum is thrilled to unveil a captivating schedule of activities and talks on Pi Day, March 14 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. This free admission event will showcase a diverse range of topics, including coastal hazards with a special emphasis on sargassum, Pi Day mathematics activities, and more!
Attendees can look forward to engaging with a variety of activities and talks, including:
Pop-Up Activity Tables 11 a.m.-3 p.m.:
– Virgin Islands Territorial Emergency Management Agency Information Booth: Explore coastal and aquatic hazards and pick up free activity books.
– United States Virgin Islands Sargassum Working Group: Dive into the world of sargassum with hands-on activities and insights into its impact on the environment.
– Center for the Study of the Wider Caribbean Team: Learn about conservation initiatives and coral insights from the experts.
– Growing Research, Restoration, Outreach and Education of U.S. Virgin Islands Mangroves: Witness a demonstration on the experimental use of Sargassum to grow mangroves.
-Virgin Islands Children’s Museum: Explore, Play and Discover with math puzzles and hands-on Pi Day activities.
Science and Math Talks 1 p.m.-3 p.m.
– Center for Education on Risks both Coastal and Aquatic (CERCA): Learn how to use the CERCA St Thomas data portal and what to expect during CERCA Saturdays at the VICM.
– Nutritionist Dr. Avril Armstrong-Freeman: Discover the link between math skills and nutrition for holistic development.
– Ocean and Coastal Observing – Virgin Islands (OCOVI): Delve into the dynamic oceanography of the Virgin Islands and its influence on the movement of sargassum and discuss some of the economic, environmental, and social impacts of sargassum within the territory’s coastal regions.
– Reef Resilience and Response: Learn about coral restoration efforts and the impact of sargassum on coral reefs.
– University of the Virgin Islands Center for Marine and Environmental Studies Ocean Glider Lab: Engage in an Ocean Glider presentation and discussions on ocean exploration.
– University of the Virgin Islands, College of Science and Mathematics: Learn about the power of Pi.
Workshops 12 p.m. – 1:45 p.m.:
– Bamboula – Embark on a journey at the crossroads of math and culture as you explore the integral role of Pi in the intricate craft of Bamboula skirts, providing a gateway to the rich traditions of dressmaking artistry and the vibrant rhythms of Bamboula dance and drumming.
– Kids Yoga Session in partnership with Breathe St. Thomas, fostering mindfulness and movement to help kids and families breathe, stretch, and grow.
“The CERCA Saturday on Pi Day celebration at the VICM, not only brings the community together in a fun and educational way but also provides a platform to raise awareness about coastal and aquatic risks, fostering a more informed and resilient community,” said Roy Watlington from OCOVI.
Special math and science activity tables will be showcased from 11am to 3pm. A Bamboula workshop led by Majestic Freedom and the Asafo drummers Jabu and Keibo will be held in the VICM dance and meditation room at noon. Science and math talks will be held from 1pm to 3pm in the Center for Education on Risks Both Coastal and Aquatic – St Thomas, which is housed in the VICM. Admission is FREE all day, for all activities.
To enhance the excitement, VICM will host a Pie Raffle activity where attendees can purchase $5 tickets for a chance to win a delicious pie from local business Banana Split Sweet and Savory.
“CERCA Saturday on Pi Day promises to be a day of exploration, education, and fun for the whole family.” said Amber McCammon, CEO at the Virgin Islands Children’s Museum.
Save the date for the next Free admission CERCA Saturday, August 8th. CERCA St Thomas and CERCA Saturday free admission days at the VICM are made possible through a grant from the Caribbean Coastal Ocean Observing System. Stay informed about coastal and aquatic risks in St Thomas by visiting the CARICOOS School Data Portal at: https://school.caricoos.org/en/cerca/st-thomas/
To learn more about CERCA St. Thomas or the national Year of Math activation occurring nationwide and at the VICM in 2026, we invite you to visit the Virgin Islands Children’s Museum website at www.vichildrensmuseum.org.
