West Pender Middle School Teacher Receives Aquarium Grant to Bring Science to Life
BURGAW, NC – Science education at West Pender Middle School has received a significant boost thanks to a grant awarded to Mrs. Rosemarie Goyette, an 8th-grade science teacher and a new addition to the school this year. Through the NC Aquarium Scholars grant, Mrs. Goyette was able to take her students on a transformative field trip to the North Carolina Aquarium, providing them with a hands-on learning experience that many had never encountered before.
Mrs. Goyette’s students were immersed in lessons on ecosystems, biodiversity, and conservation, bringing to life concepts they had previously only explored in textbooks. “This grant provided them with a hands-on, immersive learning experience that directly connected to our curriculum,” she explained. “It allowed my students to see firsthand the concepts we’ve been discussing in class, making science more tangible and meaningful for them.”
Bridging the Gap in Science Education
For many students, this trip was their first time visiting an aquarium or even seeing the ocean. Recognizing this gap in experience, Mrs. Goyette applied for the grant with a clear goal: to provide students with an authentic, real-world connection to their studies. “I knew many of my students had never been to an aquarium or even visited the beach,” she said. “Living in North Carolina, it’s important for them to understand our state’s diverse ecosystems, from the mountains to the coastal habitats.”
The grant covered transportation and admission costs, ensuring that all students could participate. During their visit, they engaged in interactive exhibits, observed marine life up close, and participated in educational programs aligned with their classroom learning. This experience will now be followed by discussions and a project linking their observations to local ecosystems.
Overcoming Challenges in Science Instruction
One of the greatest challenges in science education is making abstract concepts feel relevant. “Not all students have access to travel experiences, and for some, their knowledge of marine ecosystems is limited to what they see in textbooks,” Mrs. Goyette noted. “This grant removes financial barriers and allows students to experience science firsthand, fostering deeper understanding and engagement.”
Seeing marine animals in their natural habitats and learning from experts in the field made a lasting impression. The visit also provided insight into marine conservation efforts, helping students understand human impact on ecosystems and ways they can contribute to sustainability.
Standing Out in the Application Process
The competitive grant application process required Mrs. Goyette to demonstrate how the funding would align with educational standards and benefit her students. She emphasized the lack of exposure many of her students had to North Carolina’s coastal ecosystems and how this trip would reinforce their learning. “I believe what made my proposal stand out was the emphasis on equitable access—giving students who may not otherwise have these opportunities a chance to connect with science in a meaningful way,” she shared.
A Lasting Impact on Students
The effects of the trip were immediate. “Many of my students had never been to the beach before, so just feeling the sand and seeing the waves was an unforgettable experience,” said Mrs. Goyette. “They were excited, asking questions, and making real connections to what we’ve studied in class.”
Partnerships like the one with the NC Aquarium are crucial in enriching the science curriculum. “The aquarium provided expert-led sessions, hands-on exhibits, and immersive learning experiences that I simply couldn’t replicate in a traditional classroom setting,” she said. “These partnerships also expose students to career paths in marine biology, conservation, and environmental science, which can inspire their future studies.”
Encouraging Educators to Seek Opportunities
For educators considering applying for similar grants, Mrs. Goyette has one piece of advice: go for it. “Even if you’re unsure about your chances, take the time to apply. Focus on how the grant will directly benefit your students and tie it to your curriculum. Highlight any barriers your students face, such as financial limitations or lack of access to hands-on learning experiences,” she advised. “Many community organizations are eager to support educators and provide meaningful learning opportunities for students.”
As Mrs. Goyette continues her first year at West Pender Middle, she remains dedicated to providing engaging, real-world science experiences for her students. Thanks to the NC Aquarium Scholars grant, her students now have a deeper appreciation for the world around them and a greater understanding of the science that shapes it.
