Our morning program involved rotating through lab stations, where we learned about algae, sharks, and different types of fish through hands-on activities. We enjoyed more snorkeling in the afternoon, which also included some time jumping off the floating platform. The water was very clear, allowing the students to see several more leopard sharks and garibaldi. Some of the instructors were also able to locate sea stars and a sea cucumber, which they brought to the surface for the students to see. Yes, it was cold, but the students were thrilled and had a great time. As the activity came to a close, fog rolled in, creating a beautiful backdrop as we returned to the island. Our evening program was an island simulation, where students had to address critical issues as they planned the development of a newly discovered island. They had to work together as a team to present a model that would help solve such problems as power/energy supply, waste removal, and resource protection; it was great fun watching them think and discuss (and argue, of course) during the project. You can see photos from today’s activities at www.flickr.com/photos/sandpiperprincipal. (My apologies for not making this a link… I can’t get it to work. Also, I did not upgrade my Flckr account, so it only allows me to upload 200 photos. Many of the photos from day 1 were removed to make way for photos from day 2.)
We will leave Toyon Bay on Friday morning and take shore boats to Avalon. The express shuttle leaves at 11:45 am (12:45 pm – Arizona time), and it typically takes about an hour to get to Long Beach. I will send out another phone message when the bus is loaded and we are ready to travel, which I expect to be around 1:15-1:30 pm (2:15-2:30 pm – Arizona time).
Your students are having a great time, and I know they are eager to get back home to share this experience with you!
