From snorkeling along coral reefs to exploring the Everglades, Harrison Central students experienced science, history and environmental education firsthand during an unforgettable four-day STEM trip to Florida, October 27–30.
The educational adventure took students across Florida, where they explored diverse ecosystems, studied marine life and discovered the importance of conservation through hands-on experiences that brought classroom lessons to life.
Throughout the trip, students visited the Florida Botanical Gardens, Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center, Florida Aquarium and Tampa Bay Estuary, learning about the state's unique plants, animals and aquatic environments. They participated in activities including a lionfish dissection, nighttime exploration of aquatic wildlife along a sandbar and a dolphin sightseeing excursion.
One of the trip's highlights was snorkeling among the coral reefs at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo. Students also learned about tarpon in Islamorada, explored Florida's waterways on an airboat tour of the Peace River and experienced the Everglades ecosystem through a guided boardwalk tour at the Big Cypress Seminole Reservation. Their visit to the reservation's museum provided an opportunity to learn about Seminole history and culture.
The experience extended beyond science, with students also exploring the history of Ybor City and discovering the cultural influences that helped shape the Tampa area.
Investing in Experiences Beyond the Classroom
Opportunities like this reflect our Board of Education's commitment to investing in meaningful educational experiences that extend beyond the walls of our campus. By providing students with opportunities to travel, explore and learn in new environments, the district continues to create experiences that broaden perspectives, spark curiosity and connect classroom learning to the world around them.
Representing Harrison Central with Pride
Throughout their travels, Harrison Central students received compliments on their outstanding behavior, kindness and respect. At stop after stop, they represented their school and community in a way that made the district incredibly proud.
We couldn't be prouder of how these students conducted themselves while taking advantage of such an incredible learning opportunity. Their enthusiasm, curiosity and positive attitudes were just as impressive as the experiences themselves.
Check out pictures from the trip below!