To celebrate Earth Day, students in grades one through eight visited the Maritime Aquarium in Norwalk, CT for a day of hands-on learning and marine exploration. During this trip, students were able to observe and appreciate the vast variety of organisms we share our planet with. All of the students visited the aquarium eager to discover what mysteries awaited them, especially since the aquarium has undergone many changes over the past decade.

Upon arrival, students were greeted by silly seals, mischievous meerkats, jiggling jellyfish, tranquil turtles, and much more! They were also given fun, interactive activities to complete while exploring the aquarium. First and second grades enjoyed an alphabetical scavenger hunt, third and fourth grades had a scavenger hunt based on animal features, and the upper school participated in a research activity that helped them understand the various roles of different organisms on our planet.

Halfway through the trip, students watched the harbor seal feeding, where they learned about harbor seals and enjoyed a magnificent show put on by the animals. They also explored the touch tanks, where they had the opportunity to feel the rough skin of a shark or the slimy texture of a manta ray.

In the end, students gained a deeper appreciation for the incredible diversity of life with which we share our planet, and they learned that all organisms are interconnected in some way. We are happy to have celebrated Earth Day at the aquarium, and we will continue to practice good stewardship for our planet so that all of these species can continue to thrive on Earth.