Forty-two excited students from Rosemary Clarke Middle School recently returned from an unforgettable adventure at the Catalina Island Marine Institute (CIMI), where hands-on science and outdoor exploration came together for an immersive educational experience. Now in its 8th year, the trip is organized by 8th grade science teacher Mr. Ben Veloz and remains one of the school’s most anticipated annual traditions.
Over the course of five days, participating 7th and 8th graders were immersed in a variety of marine biology and island ecology programs led by knowledgeable instructors—each holding degrees in marine biology or ecology. From sunup to sundown, students engaged in learning labs and outdoor activities designed to ignite curiosity about the natural world.
The CIMI program offers a dynamic mix of adventure and academics. Students had the opportunity to snorkel, kayak, and hike, while also attending marine labs that included shark, ray, and invertebrate touch tanks. Additional sessions covered algae, plankton, fish, and terrestrial ecosystems. Evening programs kept the excitement going with environmental awareness discussions, a marine mammal lab, a squid dissection, and the highlight for many—a night snorkel.
“We were blessed with a week of incredible weather and great instructors,” said Mr. Veloz. “We completed a night snorkel for the first time and it was a hit! I was skeptical that we might have a lot of students opt out, but 30 students took that challenge and were rewarded with being able to see some ocean life that likes to come out at night, like round rays, crabs, lobsters, and a two-spotted octopus.” This year’s trip was also especially meaningful for a group of students experiencing the ocean for the very first time. “We had seven students who had never seen the ocean before this trip,” said Mr. Veloz. “It was great to be able to watch them experience it for the first time.”
This unique learning opportunity gave students more than just a break from the classroom—it provided a hands-on connection to the science they study, fostering a deeper appreciation for the ocean and the environment. The success of this year’s trip continues to strengthen RCMS’s commitment to enriching science education through real-world experiences.
For information on how your child can participate, contact Mr. Ben Veloz at bveloz@nyeschools.org.
