The April Boat Trip
On Earth Day, April 22nd, our science students culminated their comprehensive Watershed Unit with an unforgettable field excursion along the Potomac River. Partnering with the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, the hands-on learning experience took the students out of the classroom and onto the water.
Stepping into the role of field researchers, our young scientists conducted real-world investigations to analyze the health of our local waterways. Throughout the day, they applied classroom concepts in a meaningful, immersive setting—getting their hands dirty (and wet!) as they tested water quality and observed aquatic life. This excursion deepened their understanding of ecosystems and the importance of environmental stewardship.

I loved the science games that we did on the boat, they were fun and educational. I learned that rain causes a lot of sediment, nutrient, and toxic pollution to enter the river especially during spring when it rains a lot. – Juanna |
I really enjoyed my first time on a boat and learning new things about our watershed and the pollution that gets in our water and ways we can fix it. – Amiyah |
We had so much fun and we were able to put everything we’ve learned in science to use by going on the field trip! I really liked fishing and being able to touch and hold the fish afterwards. We learned that the water we were fishing in was only 9 feet deep, not that much compared to how much I would’ve thought it was. – Vanessa |
I really enjoyed the trip, especially because it was my first time on a boat. It was a very exciting experience. I also learned a lot about the river, like how scientists test the water and measure dissolved oxygen, and how pollution and temperature can affect water quality and animals.
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Thank you for giving us the opportunity to go on this trip. It was my first time on a boat, It was enjoyable and I learned a lot. I touched a catfish and I didn’t know she had slimy skin. – Medeeha |
I had a wonderful experience that I will always remember. I really enjoyed being on the boat, spending time outdoors, and learning new things. My favorite part was seeing nature up close and learning about the animal, and the environment. The trip was both fun and educational. Ali Sina |
This was my first time on a boat. I learned about turbidity and the importance of clear water for fish and underwater plants. My favorite part was touching the fish. — Farah |
It was an unforgettable experience. Lobe |
We had a great time and were able to see new things. It was my first time on a boat. I really enjoyed and I saw how to fish and how to protect the fish. Massame. |


