Shrub Oak International School students embarked on an educational journey to the Maritime Aquarium in Norwalk, Connecticut. This immersive experience allowed them to engage directly with marine life and ecosystems, enhancing their understanding beyond what they learned in the classroom.
Upon arrival, students were greeted by the aquarium’s expansive exhibits, which feature more than 8,000 animals. The first stop, the “Life Among the Grasses” exhibit, is a bilingual display that replicates the salt marshes of Long Island Sound. Here, students observed the intricate relationships within this vital ecosystem, gaining insights into the flora and fauna that thrive in such environments.
The “Pinniped Cove” is home to the aquarium’s harbor seals. This exhibit, opened in June 2021, offers a unique perspective with viewing areas from three sides and two levels. Students were captivated by the seals’ agility and playful behaviors, observing them both underwater and at the surface.
The “Meerkats!” exhibit provided a delightful diversion, showcasing these energetic creatures in a habitat designed to mimic their native African-desert environment. The exhibit features multiple viewing bubbles, allowing students to observe the meerkats’ social interactions and behaviors up close.
Interactive learning was further enhanced at the “Shark and Ray Touch Pool.” Here, even our youngest students had the opportunity to safely touch and learn about various shark and ray species. This hands-on experience demystified common misconceptions and fostered a sense of connection to these often-misunderstood animals.
Our journey continued through the “Just Add Water” exhibit, which highlights how oceans influence diverse climates. Students encountered animals such as lizards, a skunk, and a porcupine, learning about their unique adaptations to different environments.
The “River Otters” exhibit showcased North American river otters in a dynamic setting featuring waterfalls and pools. Observing these high-energy animals provided students with an understanding of freshwater ecosystems and the importance of conservation efforts.
Throughout the visit, our students engaged with various educational programs and interactive displays, reinforcing their classroom learning. The Maritime Aquarium’s mission to “ignite a connection to Long Island Sound and the ocean” is an important one, helping our students to appreciate and protect our blue planet.
This field trip exemplified Shrub Oak International School’s commitment to providing experiential learning opportunities that enrich our students’ educational journey. By immersing themselves in the diverse marine and terrestrial exhibits, students gained a deeper appreciation for the interconnectedness of Earth’s ecosystems, the importance of environmental stewardship, and the fun of hands-on learning.
