On Apr. 24 and May 1, fourth-grade students from UptheGrove Elementary in Hendry County left their classrooms and headed to Sanibel Island for full-day field trips with Sanibel Sea School.

Working closely with teachers ahead of the visits, educators designed the experience to align with the classroom curriculum and science standards while providing students with meaningful, hands-on opportunities to explore coastal ecosystems. The day’s activities focused on comparing plant and animal structures, adaptations, and the unique ways living things survive in their environments.

Throughout the day, students rotated through a variety of interactive field stations that encouraged close observation and scientific thinking. While exploring seagrass beds with dip net and a seine nets, students discovered marine creatures hidden beneath the surface and compared the anatomical features that help different species thrive.

“One especially memorable moment came when a student discovered a sea star while walking the shoreline,” shared Jordyn Sateren, Marine Science Educator. “Amazed by the movement of its tiny tube feet, the student carefully observed the animal before gently returning it to the water.”

A highlight for many students was participating in a dogfish dissection, where they compared sharks to bony fish and learned how specific adaptations help different sharks survive in the ocean.

During a wrack line investigation, students sorted and examined the organisms and plant material they had collected earlier in the day, discussing the ecological importance of each species before observing specimens under a microscope. The day also included camouflage games and creative activities where students designed their own animals using survival traits inspired by nature. After a full day of activities, students wrapped up the experience with extra beach time and surfing just for fun.

“Because UptheGrove Elementary is located more than an hour from the coast, it’s really special that this group gets to stay with us all day and maximize the beach time,” shared Shannon Rivard, Sanibel Sea School Director. “For many students, this was a rare opportunity to experience the Gulf Coast firsthand.”

The excitement and wonder of the day were impossible to miss. Educators shared that they heard countless remarks of “best day ever” and “best field trip ever” as students boarded buses to head home.

Experiences like these are made possible by Sanibel Sea School’s scholarship fund, which supports A Chance to Sea programs. Please consider donating to help more students connect classroom science to the natural world in unforgettable ways while building curiosity, confidence, and a deeper appreciation for coastal ecosystems.

Learn more here: https://sanibelseaschool.org/a-chance-to-sea/