Middle School Island Ecology

Hurricane Island programs embed students in experiences that leverage the art and practices of science as tools for leadership and social change. Through personal and group explorations, students explore their own strengths as transformative leaders who can address the sustainability challenges facing our world today.

The Middle School Summer Science programs are designed for rising 7th and 8th graders with an interest in science, being active outdoors, and exploring Maine’s enchanting coastal ecosystems. Middle School Island Ecology focuses on terrestrial and freshwater habitats on the island and the plants and animals that inhabit the forests, meadows, and ponds. Throughout the program, students will pull on their own curiosities to delve into scientific observation and the art of forming questions. Students will also investigate the role of humans in ecology and our interactions with the natural, social, and built environments on the island. This educational science program is interspersed with active team building initiatives, rock climbing, and free time to explore the island, swim off the dock, or relax in the sun. 

Spending the week off-grid, students will become familiar with sustainable practices on the island such as conserving water and minimizing food waste. Students should be prepared to engage in community living, participate in communal chores and responsibilities, and disconnect from personal technology. Through living and learning together in this dynamic environment, students will begin to explore their own strengths as leaders and how they can leverage science as a tool for social change. Students can expect to leave the island with strengthened connection to the natural world and greater confidence to continue practicing leadership in their home communities.

Middle School Island Ecology activities may include:

• Foraging for edible ingredients to cook their own meals from the island

• Using microscopes to compare freshwater and saltwater plankton species

• Searching the trees, waters, and skies around Hurricane to identify birds by sight and sound

• Working with the research team to get hands-on with Hurricane’s aquaculture projects

• Hauling lobster traps and learning about the biggest economic industry in Maine

• Exploring the impacts of sea level rise on coastal communities and brainstorming ways to address those challenges