Reagan James
Reagan co-founded the River Kidz Space Coast Chapter, which includes in-school, after-school, and community programs that inspire students to explore, protect, and appreciate the Indian River Lagoon. Through hands-on science activities, research, kayaking adventures, and environmental stewardship, these chapters connect students with the natural world around them.
My Story
Ever since I was little, I’ve loved science. I was always mixing things together — shampoo, conditioner, lotion, even hydrogen peroxide — just to see what would happen. Our bathroom became my own chemistry lab, and I couldn’t wait to discover new “formulas.”
As an elementary student, I fell in love with geology. I used to pick up rocks everywhere I went, filling my lunchbox and backpack until they were so heavy I could barely carry them! Those rocks and mixtures sparked my lifelong curiosity about how the world works.
When I started at Edgewood Jr./Sr. High School, I was determined to dive deeper into science. In seventh grade, I chose to take advanced math and science even though it meant more work — because I knew those classes would lead me to the research and lab experiences I loved.
That passion led me to partner with St. Mark’s Episcopal Academy and the Indian River Lagoon Coalition to co-lead the River Kidz After-School Club. In River Kidz, students learn hands-on science by exploring the Indian River Lagoon. We test water quality, measure pH, salinity, temperature, and track turbidity to understand lagoon health. We also study wildlife — from plankton and fish to oysters and birds — identifying species, taking photos, and collecting data.
Another area that fascinates me is marine debris — how plastics, tangles, and micro-particles affect marine life, water quality, and humans. Through River Kidz, we work to clean up the lagoon, study seagrass decline, and understand its impact on manatees and the entire ecosystem.
River Kidz is more than a club — it’s an adventure. We learn to kayak safely, practice first aid, and explore nature like modern-day Steve Irwins or Wild Kratts explorers. Every time we’re out on the water, I’m reminded that science isn’t just something you read about — it’s something you live.
Meet the Team
River Kidz Space Coast Team – Indian River Lagoon, Brevard County
Meet the River Kidz Space Coast Team—an inspiring group of educators, scientists, and student leaders dedicated to protecting and preserving the Indian River Lagoon. Together, they bring hands-on learning, environmental stewardship, and community collaboration to schools across Brevard County. Learn more about each team member and their role in empowering the next generation of lagoon protectors below.
Brevard Indian River Lagoon Coalition
Craig Wallace, Chairman
Craig Wallace is the Chairman of the Indian River Lagoon Coalition and sponsor of River Kidz chapters across Brevard County and the Space Coast. A retired Electrical Engineer and Marketing Manager, Craig has a lifelong passion for the Lagoon, growing up fishing, clamming, and sailing its waters. Since retiring to Melbourne in 2016, he has volunteered with Restore Our Shores, the Marine Resources Council, and UF/IFAS, and joined the Brevard IRL Coalition in 2020, becoming Chairman in 2022. Through River Kids, Craig connects students with conservation projects, special speakers, and hands-on learning to inspire the next generation of environmental stewards.
Space Coast River Kidz Program Director
Karis James
Karis James is the Program Director of River Kidz – Space Coast, leading and expanding initiatives across multiple locations. She oversees hands-on environmental projects that engage students in protecting and celebrating the Indian River Lagoon, including the launch of River Kidz research kayak fleet with support from the Spearman Research Kayak Grant. Each kayak is named after a local species and reflects character traits such as integrity and compassion. Karis also develops mentorship programs, connecting older and younger students to inspire a lifelong passion for marine science and conservation.
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St. Mark's River Kidz Chapter Leader
Juliana Calderone
Juliana is the St. Mark’s River Kidz Chapter Leader. With a background in Marine and Environmental Science, she brings hands-on experience in research, conservation, and education, inspiring students to explore, protect, and celebrate the Indian River Lagoon.
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Pinecrest River Kidz Chapter Leader
Blanca Ramirez
Blanca Ramirez leads the River Kidz Chapter at Pinecrest Academy, Space Coast, inspiring young explorers to dive into the wonders of the Indian River Lagoon. With a strong background in middle school science and environmental studies, she blends hands-on research, conservation, and education to create meaningful experiences that spark curiosity, stewardship, and a love for protecting our local waterways.
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Contact
I'm always looking for new and exciting opportunities. Let's connect.
321-698-9148