FCS 10th- and 11th-grade students experience hands-on learning at the Chincoteague Bay Field Station, exploring coastal ecology, testing water quality, and studying marine life in its natural habitat. This bi-annual trip deepens their understanding of God’s creation, inspiring curiosity, stewardship, and a greater appreciation for His creativity and design.

Some of the most robust educational experiences can happen away from the classroom. Such is our environmental science field trip at the Chincoteague Bay Field Station in Wallops Island, attended by students in grades 10 and 11. It is an opportunity to connect with the natural world, witness real-world applications of science, and build a deeper appreciation and sense of responsibility for the world God has entrusted to us.

Whether the students are testing water quality, observing how populations of species interact with each other and their environment, or identifying microscopic organisms, this hands-on approach helps them to understand the complexities of nature in a more meaningful way.

The focus on the ecology of the coast, marshes, and maritime forests ignites curiosity and plants seeds of environmental stewardship as students recognize the importance of their role in the Creation Mandate. As emphasized in our classical model, these close observations also allow students to better understand the very nature and character of God.

This bi-annual trip is a rare opportunity to step outside the classroom and into the living laboratory of the natural world, inspiring action, awareness, and appreciation for God’s creativity and beauty!

The three-day excursion was filled with hands-on lessons, class-bonding activities,
and an appreciation for all of God’s wonders!