Sound to Sea Environmental Education Program

Sound to Sea Program Goals

The Sound to Sea Program will help students understand why and how we are tied to the earth. Through the Biology, Cultural or Current Events Program options, students will have the opportunity to learn about the unique adaptations of the plants and animals that live on a barrier island, how man has used these plants and animals throughout history, or how the loss of this amazing biodiversity is harmful to human health. Baba Dioum, an African Naturalist, explains the situation most elegantly “In the end, we will only conserve what we love. We will only love what we understand. We will only understand what we are taught.” We want the Sound to Sea Program to be the first step in this chain.

To increase awareness of the human community
In addition to recognizing the ecological communities across the island, students and teachers further explore their human community. By interacting with groups at the dining table and in cabins or classes, students begin to value their place within a community and realize how one individual affects others.

To introduce students and teachers to a variety of habitats typical of a North Carolina Barrier Island
Many students have never seen the sound, salt marsh, freshwater pond, maritime forest or beach habitats. Being able to walk from the sound to the sea, in a matter of minutes, and see the complex ecosystems they learn about in school has a tremendous impact on students.

To apply classroom learning in a practical way
Students often find it difficult to understand how and where they can apply school subject areas outside the classroom. In order to determine the salinity of the water of Bogue Sound, students use math skills to read the hydrometer and various charts. From the water cycle to plant characteristics, students make connections between what they learned in school and what they experience at Sound to Sea.

To enhance relationships between adults and students
Imagine students supporting a teacher on the swinging log at the challenge course.  While interacting outside the classroom setting, students and teachers form lasting healthy relationships. Even planning the trip unites a classroom group as they pursue a common goal.

To stimulate personal growth--students develop a sense of independence and responsibility
For many children Sound to Sea is a first experience away from home for an extended period of time. In an atmosphere of support and encouragement, students help each other adapt to their new habitat, and individually begin to assume responsibility for their behavior and personal belongings. This contributes to the tremendous growth students experience at Sound to Sea.