Achievement First Bridgeport Academy Students Study Long Island Sound

BRIDGEPORT, CT — After more than a decade in the classroom, eighth-grade English teacher Serena Barton says memorable learning often happens outside school walls. This fall, her students from Achievement First Bridgeport Academy spent a day aboard the schooner SoundWaters, where they studied Long Island Sound through hands-on, science-based activities.

"Trawling and examining organisms while out on the Long Island Sound sparks a love of learning that can’t be fostered within the walls of a traditional classroom," Barton said. "The partnership with SoundWaters expands our students’ horizons and helps them see themselves as the future scientists, environmental stewards and community change-makers that they can become."

During the trip, 35 students worked as field scientists, conducting water-sample tests, studying intertidal habitats and inspecting marine life collected in trawling nets. Under the guidance of the SoundWaters captain and crew, students also helped raise the vessel’s sails, gaining firsthand experience in the coordination required for sailing.

“Every time students come aboard, they not only learn about the science of Long Island Sound, they also discover their own power to explore, question and protect the world around them,” said Leigh Shemitz, president of SoundWaters. “That sense of connection and curiosity is what makes these sails so transformative.”

SoundWaters offers programs on land and water aimed at engaging students in marine science. Activities include exploring coastal habitats and examining water quality, with the goal of offering what the organization describes as an unforgettable school-day experience.

According to the organization, SoundWaters focuses on preparing young people with environmental science knowledge, fostering appreciation for Long Island Sound and expanding access to the water.

More information is available at soundwaters.org.