Students describe snorkeling, research visits and ‘firsts’ from Florida Keys trip

Four students who traveled to Florida with Huntington North High School described new experiences and takeaways to the school board April 27.

Senior Ellie Stevenson said snorkeling was a highlight: "This trip will forever be one of my favorite memories in high school, and I'm so incredibly grateful for the opportunity to go." Junior Kiara Barr said she saw the ocean for the first time and described the trip as healing for her mental health, which motivated her to volunteer in ecological projects this summer. Braden Meyer said touring Plan a Million Corals and meeting Dr. Vaughan inspired him to seek summer research opportunities. Emma Richard described fellowship and gratitude as the trip’s biggest takeaways.

Mr. Park and Dr. Park accompanied students and told the board the program gives students meaningful first-time experiences—riding on a plane, visiting national parks and seeing research in action—and that the district aims to offer the trip at an accessible cost. Mr. Park said this year 25 students attended and the most the group has taken in one year is 38.

The board thanked the students for sharing their reflections; the presentations were given informally and no board action was required.

Why it matters: Student field trips that combine travel, conservation research and social connection are presented by school staff as part of experiential learning and postsecondary preparation. The students said the trip influenced volunteer plans and academic interests going forward.