Fourth Grade Shore Trip

 Fourth grade embarked on their annual trip to Cape Henlopen in Lewes Beach, Delaware during the last week of September. For the students, the trip was not only a chance to explore nature at the shore with classmates and teachers, but it was a journey outside of their comfort zones. Our schedule was jam-packed with activities and adventures that we will not soon forget.

Upon arriving at Cape Henlopen State Park, we were lead through a seining activity with the park guides. The Fourth Grade fished with large nets to catch crabs and small fish. A surprising highlight was catching a Stargazer fish, which can deliver electric shocks! It was the first to have been caught at the park!

Following seining, fourth graders made their way from the bay to the ocean to a hawk watch overlook. From this spot the students found comfortable places to sit and create beautiful watercolor paintings of their surroundings, enjoying the sound of the crashing waves nearby and the last of the bright light of the afternoon. 

That evening after dinner and sunset, we began our full moon lantern ceremony. With their colorful lanterns in tow, students performed their moonlight dances which they had created in Music class with Keisha. Next, in small groups students recited poetry they had memorized about the power and beauty of the ocean. 

The next morning, Fourth Grade was up bright and early. Again we ventured to the hawk watch, overcoming the long walk and the enormous Asian tiger mosquitoes in time to watch the sun rise over the ocean. A few clouds threatened to block our view, but the glimpse we saw was magical.