Have you ever wanted to swim with the dolphins? Snorkel in the Florida Keys? Explore the Everglades? Sounds like a lot of fun, doesn’t it? But, it’s also very educational. And in 2016, we, a group of eighth graders from Boothbay Region Elementary School, will join our teachers Judy Dorr and Kathy Hartley on a trip to Florida to participate in a science action and adventure program called “Splash into Science”. The program is organized by WorldStrides, the nation’s oldest and largest student travel organization. WorldStrides has been making education come alive for students since 1967.

Our trip starts next May, as we leave on a Tuesday and return on a Saturday. During those days away we will experience science in the real world. Our program includes visiting a turtle hospital, experiencing Everglades National Park, and two of Florida’s state parks, as well as snorkeling and swimming with the dolphins as mentioned already. We will have a unique opportunity to get “hands on” with science.

We have been fundraising already to support our trip. Currently we have an online auction up for all to bid on. It has some amazing jewelry, art, scarves and gift certificates.  Bidders may make a bid online at: https://www.facebook.com/Splash-Into-Science-863752410340371/?fref=ts or can stop by Boothbay Region Elementary and bid via paper (if they do not have internet or Facebook access). All the money we raise will help our students make this trip a reality.

Auction bidding will close at 3 p.m. on Dec 11, 2015 and all winning bidders will be notified by Dec. 17, 2015.