Village Community School Students Widen Their Knowledge Net at OceansWide Science Camp

NEW YORK, July 13, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Choosing to investigate tidal pools instead of lounging around chlorinated ones, 23 VCS Upper School students spent the first two weeks of their summer vacation adventuring through Acadia National Park, diving into exploratory experiences and independent research projects at OceansWide Marine Technology and Science Summer Camp at Schoodic Institute.

"It's another wonderful opportunity for students to live their learning," said Eve Kleger, VCS Head of School. "Amid the salt air and breathtaking natural beauty, they nurture their love for hands-on scientific research."

Students voyaged into the Atlantic – alongside working scientists – to survey the deep ocean using ROVs [remotely operated vehicles] equipped with cameras, taking turns at the controls and taking note of surprising finds including scores of lobsters tucked into reefs. Local naturalists also guided students to spots replete with seals and Atlantic Puffins. Campers hiked and biked through thick, early morning fog to study forest birds with ornithologists; nighttime hikes included stargazing and a wowing look at Pluto.

Most exciting, however, were the independent scientific investigations designed, undertaken and presented by the students. Among the topics were great blue heron hunting activities, pollution's effect on sea plants, comparative tree health analysis and an engineering challenge to build a solar-powered sea buoy illuminated with LED lights.

"When they first launched the buoy, it sunk," said Luis Hernandez, a VCS teacher and trip chaperone. "But the students dug in to uncover the source of the problem, and oh, how their faces lit up when it worked."

That challenge-conquering glow has an enduring effect. "Students left feeling empowered about how their actions can have an impact on the environment," said Hernandez, noting that previous VCS campers organized a recent coastal clean up in Queens. "They are determined and committed."

ABOUT VCS

Village Community School provides a culture of achievement where students radiate intellectual vitality – stretching and advancing beyond traditional notions of what K-8 students can accomplish. Our 350 students live their learning through active experiences that delve deeply into subject matter and make connections between disciplines. Located in Greenwich Village, VCS offers an inclusive environment where diverse perspectives are essential to our rigorous academic program.

Learn more at vcsnyc.org 

SOURCE Village Community School (VCS)

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