Sedge Island Teacher Training Workshop #1

This past week we had a wonderful mix of teachers out on Sedge Island for our annual teacher training workshop. This group was my best yet on sedge. We had retired and working teachers, history and science, high school and grade school and a whole lot more. We got to have a lot of fun, but learn about the marsh and surrounding areas in a way that the teachers can bring what they learned back into their classrooms and their lives.

The high point for me was probably when we had finished building our “Wetland in a Pan” with our clay and paint tray. When the lemonaid mix (oops I mean toxic sludge) came out of the CIBA chemical plant, and the crowd gasped and cheered, I knew that my work was done. As teachers we strive for the “wow” moment, the moment when you know a student actually gets it, and to get that reaction from teachers was priceless.






We had many more teachable moments than just playing with clay. We fished, conducted water quality sampling, clammed, snorkeled, and ate our catches. Christine, an expert birder, was able to point out many species not known to most, and Georgiana erupted with a plan when she saw and learned about the USACE Dike. Chris was our expert griller, and Hillary started the outdoor shower trend, running around in the pouring rain with a huge smile on her face.
Judy Peet, a reporter form the Star Ledger stuck out all 3 days with us on the island and was such an asset to the group. She knew so many things about the area and contributed to our discussions and teachings. Nine teachers came out to Sedge Island, and left as a unified group. The teamwork was amazing, and everyone pitched in to help wherever and whenever it was needed. The house was left more than spotless, thanks to Jill and Pat’s sneaky cleaning maneuvers. I would turn around for 5 minutes and the dishes would be cleaned, dry and put away!
This group was truly amazing and New Jersey (and Philly too) is blessed to have them. We look forward to hearing your comments about your time on Sedge! Have a great rest of your summer!!!

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