Saint Stephen’s is offering students in the marine science department the unique opportunity to apply their knowledge outside the school grounds.

Yesterday, On Sunday, November 12th, 20 students taking Marine 1-3 departed on an optional field trip to the Florida Keys. On this trip, they will have the chance to study marine biology in real-life labs.

In addition to taking part in the labs, the marine science students will also go snorkeling and study mangroves, seagrass, and, most importantly, coral reefs. After the activities, students will debrief and engage in discussions about what they did that day, solidifying their discoveries.

Marine science teacher, Mrs. Jessica Angelo, is a chaperone and coordinator of the field trip along with Mrs. Allison Misiewicz, and Angelo is looking forward to seeing what the kids will learn.

“At school, we are able to immerse our students in estuaries, mangroves, and seagrass beds, but not coral,” Angelo said.

“This trip provides us with the unique opportunity to immerse ourselves in our vitally important coral reef ecosystem.”

Visiting the Keys’ coral reefs has also been highly anticipated by many of the marine science students. Seniors, Madison McAvoy and Jake Seubert are excited about the Keys trip because it presents the chance to expand and apply their knowledge beyond the bays of Bradenton.

“I hope to learn more about the reef environment,” McAvoy commented, “I’ve always had a big love for the reefs.”

Seubert also says he is most looking forward to “snorkeling on the reefs” as he will have the opportunity to “look at the reef and see its ecosystem first-hand.”

By being around experts in that field for three days, the marine students are sure to learn a great deal about the reefs.

For the younger students, the Keys are a chance to advance their journey in marine science, and for the students in Marine 3, it’s a chance to put their knowledge to the test.

“I went there a few years ago when I didn’t know anything, and now I just know a lot more,” McAvoy said. “I’m just excited to go back; everything has come full circle.”