On Wednesday, September 28, 2022, seventh grade students on the Swain Campus embarked on an overnight trip to the Chincoteague Bay Field Station on Wallop Island, VA.

The Chincoteague Bay Field Station, located on Wallops Island in Virginia, is a research station that specializes in wetland ecology and oceanography.  As a capstone trip of the outdoor education program, the classes and experiences during this trip support the science oceanography curriculum.

Their first day of experiential learning began with a “class” in wetland ecology. Students examined different factors that contribute to the ecological importance of wetlands and salt marshes. They were able to experience both environments by swimming and wading in the wetland and marshes.  To say they got muddy is an understatement! 

Their afternoon adventure included an oceanography cruise on a research vessel where they used a variety of scientific equipment to make predictions about tidal creek environments, water quality, and aquatic organisms. In the evening, they traversed the island to discuss physical and behavioral adaptations of nocturnal organisms and the reliability of human senses.

On the last day, they ended their trip by visiting the NASA Wallops Island station to tour the facility and learn about their programming. 

In addition to being a part of the Science curriculum, this trip served as a  wonderful bonding experience for the 7th grade class. They had the opportunity to get to know each other in a different environment and enjoy the outdoors. 

Special thank you to trip chaperones, Mrs. Mitchell, Mr. Lonabocker, Mr. Haviland, and Mrs. Crerand!