On Aug. 23, 2023, Martin County School District students returned to the one-of-a-kind Environmental Studies Center for the first time in the 2023-2024 school year.
A visit to the ESC isn't a field trip; it's a field experience! Students in kindergarten through seventh-grade classes visit the Center each year to participate in hands-on field investigations. Students explore the Indian River Lagoon, Hutchinson Island beaches, mangrove communities, freshwater ponds and wetlands.
Each year, students focus on a different environmental studies topic related to their local ecosystem, so they are always learning something new when they visit.
Fourth-grade students at Jensen Beach Elementary were the very first to return to the 'Gem' of the District. In fourth grade, students dive deep into studies about mangroves and how important they are for our local ecosystem.
They first learn about mangroves in the classroom, then take a short ride to the beaches of the Indian River Lagoon to analyze the trees in person.
Mrs. Rhodes' fourth-grade students were the very first to explore the newly renovated Wet Lab as well! The Wet Lab received upgrades, thanks to Impact 100 Martin, which included the installation of air conditioning, wood composite paneling around all tanks, and more!
Watch a recap of the fantastic first day back at the ESC for the new school year: