Eco Explorers

Manchester Township Education Association

Ocean County educator Kristine LaPorte with Susan Morgan from Manchester Township School District were awarded a $4,500 grant entitled Eco Explorers. This is an experiential environmental science program at Manchester Middle School designed for students in grades 6-8 who are passionate about ecology, conservation, and real-world science learning. The program bridges classroom instruction with hands-on field experiences, allowing students to explore local ecosystems through activities such as water sampling, species identification, seining, nature walks, whale watching, and visits to aquariums and conservation sites. The grant supports transportation, entrance fees, and field equipment so that all students, regardless of socioeconomic background, can participate. By expanding enrollment and increasing off-site investigations, Eco Explorers promotes scientific inquiry, environmental stewardship, and equitable access to experiential STEM learning.

For more information, contact:

Kristine LaPorte
Manchester Middle School
(732) 657-1717