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"the mountain and the sea are excellent schoolmasters, and teach some of us more than we can ever learn from books." -john lubbock
Meet Our Team
The Salish Sea School is committed to cultivating and preserving a culture of diversity, inclusion, and connectedness. We are able to grow and learn better together with a diverse team. We welcome the unique contributions that one can bring in terms of their education, opinions, culture, ethnicity, race, sex, gender identity and expression, nation of origin, age, languages spoken, veteran’s status, color, religion, disability, sexual orientation and beliefs.
We are stronger together with the collective sum of individual differences, life experiences, knowledge, innovation, self-expression, and talent which ultimately brings about a healthier planet.
Click on the pictures below to learn more.
Policies and Procedure
Policies & Procedures
- 01The Salish Sea School is committed to providing programs and services accessible to individuals with needs for accommodations. Requests will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Please contact Amy at (360) 900-2272 or info@thesalishseaschool.org at least 60 days before program start date to discuss how we may best accommodate your student's needs.
- 02Parents/guardians are responsible for notifying program personnel when a student will not be in attendance for the day. You can call and leave a message for registration at (360) 900-2272. Students that are not well enough to follow the day’s activities will not be allowed to attend camp. This includes campers with the following symptoms: vomiting, fever, early cold, discharging eyes, stomach pain, active rash, diarrhea, sore throat and/or nausea. If a student exhibits signs of illness during the program, they will be kept comfortable while the parent/guardian/emergency contact is notified. If no party can be reached and symptoms persist, the child’s physician will be notified, and their directions followed. The Salish Sea School will not pro-rate the cost of the program if a student is absent one or more days.
- 03To enroll in the program, you must agree to these terms. Spring, Fall, Winter Programs: No refunds provided Summer programs: Initial enrollment deposit (if applicable)- non-refundable, no exceptions can be made. Remaining balance due 60 days prior to session. Cancellations between 31 and 60 days prior to session start date = $300 fee from remaining balance (in addition to deposit), Cancellations between 0 and 30 days prior to session start date = non-refundable, no exceptions. All cancellations must be submitted in writing and must be received in the above time frames.
- 04To maintain a safe and cooperative setting, The Salish Sea School has specific policies and limitations that govern our facilities, personnel, and the behavior of each participant. It is important for us to provide positive, realistic expectations and guidelines for each student to ensure their success during the program. TSSS also has a strict policy regarding behavior and bullying. The atmosphere that is created during the program is intended to make all students feel physically safe. Compliance with imposed limits and policies of the facility and programs is expected. Should it become necessary to correct or resolve any dangerous or disruptive behavior, personnel will follow these steps: 1. Reasoning: Verbal communication between the participant and personnel where problems and solutions are identified. 2. Time away: Removal from specific activity which could mean an early drop-off or request to stay home for the next day. 3. Parent/guardian is requested to stay with the student for the majority of the program. If this is not possible, move to #4. 4. Dismissal from program: If the first three steps have been taken and the issue is unresolved the student will be removed from the program. Please note that refunds will not be given in such cases.
- 05Medical Treatment: The Salish Sea School carries liability insurance only and does not provide health insurance. If a student requires medical care by a health professional, the parent/guardian is financially responsible. The Salish Sea School is NOT responsible for student medical expenses. You are responsible for providing us with the correct insurance and credit card information on your child’s updated medical form. In the event outside medical services are required including doctor, hospital services and medicine due to illness, all bills will be filed with the insurance card that you have provided for your child and the MasterCard or Visa number you have provided camp. In case of injury, The Salish Sea School's personnel will take the necessary steps to ensure proper emergency care, which may include treatment by personnel for minor injuries, phoning you for instructions, calling local EMS providers, or transporting your child to a doctor or emergency care facility. EMERGENCY PROCEDURE In the rare event of a serious illness/injury the following procedures will be followed: 1. Contact 911. 2. Administer immediate first aid/CPR. 3. Report incident to program coordinator, who will call parent/guardian or emergency contact. 4. Transport to nearest hospital (if necessary). 5. File accident/medical report PARENTAL NOTIFICATION It is very important that you provide us with complete emergency contact information. If you are traveling, please list an itinerary and phone numbers where you can be reached. In the case of any injury that requires medical attention, we will make every attempt to contact you prior to treatment. In the event you cannot be reached, we will have on file your written authorization to treat an injury. STUDENT MEDICATION Parents/guardians of participants needing to take prescription or over-the-counter medications during program hours must fill out the appropriate forms ("Provider parent permissions required for independent medication use and carry") before the start of the program. Students need A SEPARATELY FILLED OUT FORM for each medication. This will provide the necessary information and authorization for designated personnel to dispense medications at specified dosages and times. Students needing to self-administer medications for life-threatening conditions may hold onto their medications at the discretion of the parent/guardian. All prescriptions must be current, and medication MUST be in original containers with the student's name, prescribing physician, dosage, and instructions for administering. If the dosage is different than indicated on the package, a doctor’s note and signature are required. Non-prescription medications may be taken only under specific instruction from parent/guardian or physician.
- 06To help ensure student safety, a certified adult for adult and child first aid/CPR will always be available. Please note that all medical treatment is at the discretion and judgment of program personnel. In case of a minor injury (skinned knee, for example), the student will be treated according to the discretion of personnel and the incident recorded. You will be notified of the injury during sign-out at the end of the day. In the case of a non-life-threatening injury (broken arm, for example), program personnel will notify the parent/guardian/emergency contacts and transport the child to a nearby medical facility. In the case of a potentially life-threatening injury or illness, program personnel will immediately contact emergency services, after which the parent/guardian/emergency contacts will be notified. Medical expenses incurred while participating in The Salish Sea School's marine summer programs are the sole responsibility of the student's parent/guardian.
- 07You, as the parent or guardian, are responsible for all medical costs incurred because of injury or illness during program participation.
- 08The Salish Sea School makes all its decisions without regard to race, religion, color, gender identification, sexual orientation, and national origin.
- 09Our programs are all about having fun, enjoying, and exploring the outdoors - sometimes it can get windy near the water and sometimes feel 10+ degrees cooler. We have learned a warm camper is a happy camper! Layers are the best way to prepare for all types of weat her conditions. This includes warm layers, warm jacket, rain jacket, beanie, gloves, warm socks, sunhat, extra pair of socks, and closed-toe, comfortable, walking shoes. Please, no sandals. We strongly recommend your child not wear clothing items that you would mind getting dirty or stained. Every effort is made to return clearly marked items that are left behind; however, after 30 days of unclaimed belongings, the items will be donated to charity. Please feel free to mark your layers with your name for an easy return. For our spring and summer programs, please make sure your child is covered properly with sunscreen and Chapstick.
- 10We will take a short snack break each day; please make sure your child brings a snack and water bottle. Additionally, sometimes we hand-out candy prizes after games/activities. If this is not OK, please tell the teacher before the first day of class and we will have a substitute prize ready. If your child is enrolled in an all day program (longer than 3 hours), please pack a healthy lunch and let us know about any severe allergies.
- 11Due to constantly changing water and weather conditions, the day's program schedule, focus, and travel location is subject to change.
- 12A parent/guardian/caretaker is required to sign your child in and out each day.
- 13Staff has work/personal obligations after closing time each day and/or we run back-to-back programs that require the teacher leave the camp location, it is imperative you pick up your student on time. Please consider weather/traffic conditions and have an alternative pick-up plan with neighbors, relatives, or friends to ensure on time pick-up. Please be mindful of the teacher’s time and arrive no later 5 minutes after scheduled pick-up time. If a child is not picked up on time, a $5 fine will be charged for the first 10 minutes and $5 for every 5-minute period thereafter. Payment is expected at time of pick up. If no means of immediate payment is possible, parents will be required to pay at drop off the next day. Director will be sole judge of waiving fees due to any uncontrollable circumstance. If a parent/guardian does not arrive for pick up within 30 minutes of pick-up time and staff has not been able to speak with a parent/guardian and/or all other contacts have been exhausted, police will be notified for assistance. Repetitive late pick-up or non-payment of late fees may result in suspension of class privileges.
- 14We have three values at our school: 1. Be kind to yourself 2. Be kind to others 3. Be kind to nature 4. Connect with each other 5. Have fun!
- 15If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us at (360) 900-2272 or info@thesalishseaschool.org.
Frequently Asked Questions
- 01The Salish Sea School is committed to providing programs and services accessible to individuals with needs for accommodations. Requests will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Please contact Amy at (360) 900-2272 or info@thesalishseaschool.org at least 60 days before program start date to discuss how we may best accommodate your student's needs.
- 02Parents/guardians are responsible for notifying program personnel when a student will not be in attendance for the day. You can call and leave a message for registration at (360) 900-2272. Students that are not well enough to follow the day’s activities will not be allowed to attend camp. This includes campers with the following symptoms: vomiting, fever, early cold, discharging eyes, stomach pain, active rash, diarrhea, sore throat and/or nausea. If a student exhibits signs of illness during the program, they will be kept comfortable while the parent/guardian/emergency contact is notified. If no party can be reached and symptoms persist, the child’s physician will be notified, and their directions followed. The Salish Sea School will not pro-rate the cost of the program if a student is absent one or more days.
- 03To enroll in the program, you must agree to these terms. Spring, Fall, Winter Programs: No refunds provided Summer programs: Initial enrollment deposit (if applicable)- non-refundable, no exceptions can be made. Remaining balance due 60 days prior to session. Cancellations between 31 and 60 days prior to session start date = $300 fee from remaining balance (in addition to deposit), Cancellations between 0 and 30 days prior to session start date = non-refundable, no exceptions. All cancellations must be submitted in writing and must be received in the above time frames.
- 04To maintain a safe and cooperative setting, The Salish Sea School has specific policies and limitations that govern our facilities, personnel, and the behavior of each participant. It is important for us to provide positive, realistic expectations and guidelines for each student to ensure their success during the program. TSSS also has a strict policy regarding behavior and bullying. The atmosphere that is created during the program is intended to make all students feel physically safe. Compliance with imposed limits and policies of the facility and programs is expected. Should it become necessary to correct or resolve any dangerous or disruptive behavior, personnel will follow these steps: 1. Reasoning: Verbal communication between the participant and personnel where problems and solutions are identified. 2. Time away: Removal from specific activity which could mean an early drop-off or request to stay home for the next day. 3. Parent/guardian is requested to stay with the student for the majority of the program. If this is not possible, move to #4. 4. Dismissal from program: If the first three steps have been taken and the issue is unresolved the student will be removed from the program. Please note that refunds will not be given in such cases.
- 05Medical Treatment: The Salish Sea School carries liability insurance only and does not provide health insurance. If a student requires medical care by a health professional, the parent/guardian is financially responsible. The Salish Sea School is NOT responsible for student medical expenses. You are responsible for providing us with the correct insurance and credit card information on your child’s updated medical form. In the event outside medical services are required including doctor, hospital services and medicine due to illness, all bills will be filed with the insurance card that you have provided for your child and the MasterCard or Visa number you have provided camp. In case of injury, The Salish Sea School's personnel will take the necessary steps to ensure proper emergency care, which may include treatment by personnel for minor injuries, phoning you for instructions, calling local EMS providers, or transporting your child to a doctor or emergency care facility. EMERGENCY PROCEDURE In the rare event of a serious illness/injury the following procedures will be followed: 1. Contact 911. 2. Administer immediate first aid/CPR. 3. Report incident to program coordinator, who will call parent/guardian or emergency contact. 4. Transport to nearest hospital (if necessary). 5. File accident/medical report PARENTAL NOTIFICATION It is very important that you provide us with complete emergency contact information. If you are traveling, please list an itinerary and phone numbers where you can be reached. In the case of any injury that requires medical attention, we will make every attempt to contact you prior to treatment. In the event you cannot be reached, we will have on file your written authorization to treat an injury. STUDENT MEDICATION Parents/guardians of participants needing to take prescription or over-the-counter medications during program hours must fill out the appropriate forms ("Provider parent permissions required for independent medication use and carry") before the start of the program. Students need A SEPARATELY FILLED OUT FORM for each medication. This will provide the necessary information and authorization for designated personnel to dispense medications at specified dosages and times. Students needing to self-administer medications for life-threatening conditions may hold onto their medications at the discretion of the parent/guardian. All prescriptions must be current, and medication MUST be in original containers with the student's name, prescribing physician, dosage, and instructions for administering. If the dosage is different than indicated on the package, a doctor’s note and signature are required. Non-prescription medications may be taken only under specific instruction from parent/guardian or physician.
- 06To help ensure student safety, a certified adult for adult and child first aid/CPR will always be available. Please note that all medical treatment is at the discretion and judgment of program personnel. In case of a minor injury (skinned knee, for example), the student will be treated according to the discretion of personnel and the incident recorded. You will be notified of the injury during sign-out at the end of the day. In the case of a non-life-threatening injury (broken arm, for example), program personnel will notify the parent/guardian/emergency contacts and transport the child to a nearby medical facility. In the case of a potentially life-threatening injury or illness, program personnel will immediately contact emergency services, after which the parent/guardian/emergency contacts will be notified. Medical expenses incurred while participating in The Salish Sea School's marine summer programs are the sole responsibility of the student's parent/guardian.
- 07You, as the parent or guardian, are responsible for all medical costs incurred because of injury or illness during program participation.
- 08The Salish Sea School makes all its decisions without regard to race, religion, color, gender identification, sexual orientation, and national origin.
- 09Our programs are all about having fun, enjoying, and exploring the outdoors - sometimes it can get windy near the water and sometimes feel 10+ degrees cooler. We have learned a warm camper is a happy camper! Layers are the best way to prepare for all types of weat her conditions. This includes warm layers, warm jacket, rain jacket, beanie, gloves, warm socks, sunhat, extra pair of socks, and closed-toe, comfortable, walking shoes. Please, no sandals. We strongly recommend your child not wear clothing items that you would mind getting dirty or stained. Every effort is made to return clearly marked items that are left behind; however, after 30 days of unclaimed belongings, the items will be donated to charity. Please feel free to mark your layers with your name for an easy return. For our spring and summer programs, please make sure your child is covered properly with sunscreen and Chapstick.
- 10We will take a short snack break each day; please make sure your child brings a snack and water bottle. Additionally, sometimes we hand-out candy prizes after games/activities. If this is not OK, please tell the teacher before the first day of class and we will have a substitute prize ready. If your child is enrolled in an all day program (longer than 3 hours), please pack a healthy lunch and let us know about any severe allergies.
- 11Due to constantly changing water and weather conditions, the day's program schedule, focus, and travel location is subject to change.
- 12A parent/guardian/caretaker is required to sign your child in and out each day.
- 13Staff has work/personal obligations after closing time each day and/or we run back-to-back programs that require the teacher leave the camp location, it is imperative you pick up your student on time. Please consider weather/traffic conditions and have an alternative pick-up plan with neighbors, relatives, or friends to ensure on time pick-up. Please be mindful of the teacher’s time and arrive no later 5 minutes after scheduled pick-up time. If a child is not picked up on time, a $5 fine will be charged for the first 10 minutes and $5 for every 5-minute period thereafter. Payment is expected at time of pick up. If no means of immediate payment is possible, parents will be required to pay at drop off the next day. Director will be sole judge of waiving fees due to any uncontrollable circumstance. If a parent/guardian does not arrive for pick up within 30 minutes of pick-up time and staff has not been able to speak with a parent/guardian and/or all other contacts have been exhausted, police will be notified for assistance. Repetitive late pick-up or non-payment of late fees may result in suspension of class privileges.
- 14We have three values at our school: 1. Be kind to yourself 2. Be kind to others 3. Be kind to nature 4. Connect with each other 5. Have fun!
- 15If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us at (360) 900-2272 or info@thesalishseaschool.org.
- 16Guardians of the Sea Jr - you must be 11-14 years old at the time of the program. Guardians of the Sea - you must be 14-18 years old at the time of the program.
- 17A USCG Captain, deckhand/naturalist (college intern, guest speaker/researcher), and a maximum of 5 students.
- 18There is an enclosed, hard-top cabin with comfortable seats.
- 19Skyline Marina, Anacortes, WA
- 20Read about a sample daily schedule here.
- 21If you're prone to motion sickness, take your preferred remedy in the morning. We also provide Dramamine on the boat if needed. Generally, seasickness isn't a problem as the Salish Sea's waters are calm and protected.
- 22Dress in comfortable layers! It can feel 10-20 degrees cooler on the water and warmer on the islands. Suggested attire includes a short sleeve shirt, wool sweater/fleece, long pants, and a waterproof jacket. For footwear, bring hiking shoes and intertidal exploration shoes like rainboots or Tevas. No flip flops, please! Feel free to reach out with any questions.
- 23Yes. You will be encouraged to use the marina facilities prior to embarking but there will be a very basic marine head on the boat with a curtain for privacy. We will be stopping at nearby islands with port-a-potty's every few hours.
- 24Space is limited on the boat! You shouldn't need much except an excited and curious spirit. Other than that a SMALL bag with your extra layers, sunscreen, sunglasses, snack (lots of snacks!), and re-usable water bottle.
- 25When weather conditions don't allow boat-based activity, we will experience all of the incredible beauty and wonder of Fidalgo Island. Furthermore, the vessel and captain(s) all meet strict requirements by the US Coast Guard.
- 26We will accommodate any special dietary needs for lunch and snacks. There will be a form to fill out during enrollment to notate special medical/dietary needs.
- 27The high temperatures are usually around 70-75 degrees. Surprising to some, the summers don't have much rain or clouds, so be sure to pack and wear your sunscreen. Layers are best! Being underway on the water typically feels 10-15 degrees cooler than the land and the weather can change throughout the day. It is best to be prepared for a range of conditions by dressing in layers for the boat ride and removing the layers when we land on an island for a hike.
- 28Guardians will continue in the rain. We do not go out in excessively heavy rain or big seas, in this event, we will change our meeting location to a local beach on Fidalgo Island or travel on the Anacortes Ferry to a local island.
- 29The Salish Sea School is committed to providing programs and services accessible to individuals with needs for accommodations. Requests will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Please contact Amy at (703)-477-7432 or info@thesalishseaschool.org at least 60 days before program start date to discuss how we may best accommodate your student's needs
- 30Absolutely! Feel free to bring your own snacks. We suggest using reusable containers to minimize waste and don't forget your reusable water bottle! 😊
- 31Yes! We work hard to bring the participant into the moment and totally immersed in his/her surroundings by unplugging from their phones, but cameras are allowed. Water-proof camera cases or covers are recommended!
- 32There are many wonderful places to stay in or near Anacortes. Check out our places to stay page for a variety of recommendations!
- 33There is never a guarantee to see whales. Our main focus is to introduce students to the incredible Salish Sea marine ecosystem. Come with the the expectation to have fun, be present in the moment, and become a leader in marine conservation to help the environment in which all of the incredible marine life, including whales, depends!
- 34The Salish Sea School is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit that is dedicated to creating programs that get students on our shores and/or waterways, and empower student leaders to transform and protect our oceans.
- 35Marine Conservation Ecology focuses on marine organisms and ocean ecosystems and aims to prevent/limit their degradation from human impact.
- 36Absolutely! With the help of incredible local and state programs that have provided grants to The Salish Sea School, there are scholarships available. Please email info@thesalishseaschool.org to inquire about a scholarship application.
- 37The daily schedule and route will be dependent on weather conditions. However, some of the places we intend to visit when timing and weather align include: Sucia Island, Matia Island, James Island, Lopez Island, Vendovi Island, Bowman Bay, Coronet Bay, Deception Pass State Park, Cypress Island, Yellow Island, San Juan Island (The Whale Museum and Orca Survey and Outreach Center by Center for Whale Research), and much more!
- 38Yes, we offer a 10% discount for active duty and veteran family members. Thank you for your service! Please contact us for more details.
- 39No, our trips do not include overnight sessions. Students need daily transportation to and from the marina in Anacortes, WA. Skagit Transit buses have a drop-off location near the marina.
- 40Book online!
- 41The Salish Sea School will not pro-rate the cost of a program if a student is absent one or more days.
- 42We accept checks, money orders, or credit cards. All credit card payments are processed online using a secure server. There is a $50 service charge for all returned checks. Please review our cancellation policy.
- 43Check out our "Policices and Procedures" tab and/or Contact us!
Frequently Asked Questions
- 01The Salish Sea School is committed to providing programs and services accessible to individuals with needs for accommodations. Requests will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Please contact Amy at (360) 900-2272 or info@thesalishseaschool.org at least 60 days before program start date to discuss how we may best accommodate your student's needs.
- 02Parents/guardians are responsible for notifying program personnel when a student will not be in attendance for the day. You can call and leave a message for registration at (360) 900-2272. Students that are not well enough to follow the day’s activities will not be allowed to attend camp. This includes campers with the following symptoms: vomiting, fever, early cold, discharging eyes, stomach pain, active rash, diarrhea, sore throat and/or nausea. If a student exhibits signs of illness during the program, they will be kept comfortable while the parent/guardian/emergency contact is notified. If no party can be reached and symptoms persist, the child’s physician will be notified, and their directions followed. The Salish Sea School will not pro-rate the cost of the program if a student is absent one or more days.
- 03To enroll in the program, you must agree to these terms. Spring, Fall, Winter Programs: No refunds provided Summer programs: Initial enrollment deposit (if applicable)- non-refundable, no exceptions can be made. Remaining balance due 60 days prior to session. Cancellations between 31 and 60 days prior to session start date = $300 fee from remaining balance (in addition to deposit), Cancellations between 0 and 30 days prior to session start date = non-refundable, no exceptions. All cancellations must be submitted in writing and must be received in the above time frames.
- 04To maintain a safe and cooperative setting, The Salish Sea School has specific policies and limitations that govern our facilities, personnel, and the behavior of each participant. It is important for us to provide positive, realistic expectations and guidelines for each student to ensure their success during the program. TSSS also has a strict policy regarding behavior and bullying. The atmosphere that is created during the program is intended to make all students feel physically safe. Compliance with imposed limits and policies of the facility and programs is expected. Should it become necessary to correct or resolve any dangerous or disruptive behavior, personnel will follow these steps: 1. Reasoning: Verbal communication between the participant and personnel where problems and solutions are identified. 2. Time away: Removal from specific activity which could mean an early drop-off or request to stay home for the next day. 3. Parent/guardian is requested to stay with the student for the majority of the program. If this is not possible, move to #4. 4. Dismissal from program: If the first three steps have been taken and the issue is unresolved the student will be removed from the program. Please note that refunds will not be given in such cases.
- 05Medical Treatment: The Salish Sea School carries liability insurance only and does not provide health insurance. If a student requires medical care by a health professional, the parent/guardian is financially responsible. The Salish Sea School is NOT responsible for student medical expenses. You are responsible for providing us with the correct insurance and credit card information on your child’s updated medical form. In the event outside medical services are required including doctor, hospital services and medicine due to illness, all bills will be filed with the insurance card that you have provided for your child and the MasterCard or Visa number you have provided camp. In case of injury, The Salish Sea School's personnel will take the necessary steps to ensure proper emergency care, which may include treatment by personnel for minor injuries, phoning you for instructions, calling local EMS providers, or transporting your child to a doctor or emergency care facility. EMERGENCY PROCEDURE In the rare event of a serious illness/injury the following procedures will be followed: 1. Contact 911. 2. Administer immediate first aid/CPR. 3. Report incident to program coordinator, who will call parent/guardian or emergency contact. 4. Transport to nearest hospital (if necessary). 5. File accident/medical report PARENTAL NOTIFICATION It is very important that you provide us with complete emergency contact information. If you are traveling, please list an itinerary and phone numbers where you can be reached. In the case of any injury that requires medical attention, we will make every attempt to contact you prior to treatment. In the event you cannot be reached, we will have on file your written authorization to treat an injury. STUDENT MEDICATION Parents/guardians of participants needing to take prescription or over-the-counter medications during program hours must fill out the appropriate forms ("Provider parent permissions required for independent medication use and carry") before the start of the program. Students need A SEPARATELY FILLED OUT FORM for each medication. This will provide the necessary information and authorization for designated personnel to dispense medications at specified dosages and times. Students needing to self-administer medications for life-threatening conditions may hold onto their medications at the discretion of the parent/guardian. All prescriptions must be current, and medication MUST be in original containers with the student's name, prescribing physician, dosage, and instructions for administering. If the dosage is different than indicated on the package, a doctor’s note and signature are required. Non-prescription medications may be taken only under specific instruction from parent/guardian or physician.
- 06To help ensure student safety, a certified adult for adult and child first aid/CPR will always be available. Please note that all medical treatment is at the discretion and judgment of program personnel. In case of a minor injury (skinned knee, for example), the student will be treated according to the discretion of personnel and the incident recorded. You will be notified of the injury during sign-out at the end of the day. In the case of a non-life-threatening injury (broken arm, for example), program personnel will notify the parent/guardian/emergency contacts and transport the child to a nearby medical facility. In the case of a potentially life-threatening injury or illness, program personnel will immediately contact emergency services, after which the parent/guardian/emergency contacts will be notified. Medical expenses incurred while participating in The Salish Sea School's marine summer programs are the sole responsibility of the student's parent/guardian.
- 07You, as the parent or guardian, are responsible for all medical costs incurred because of injury or illness during program participation.
- 08The Salish Sea School makes all its decisions without regard to race, religion, color, gender identification, sexual orientation, and national origin.
- 09Our programs are all about having fun, enjoying, and exploring the outdoors - sometimes it can get windy near the water and sometimes feel 10+ degrees cooler. We have learned a warm camper is a happy camper! Layers are the best way to prepare for all types of weat her conditions. This includes warm layers, warm jacket, rain jacket, beanie, gloves, warm socks, sunhat, extra pair of socks, and closed-toe, comfortable, walking shoes. Please, no sandals. We strongly recommend your child not wear clothing items that you would mind getting dirty or stained. Every effort is made to return clearly marked items that are left behind; however, after 30 days of unclaimed belongings, the items will be donated to charity. Please feel free to mark your layers with your name for an easy return. For our spring and summer programs, please make sure your child is covered properly with sunscreen and Chapstick.
- 10We will take a short snack break each day; please make sure your child brings a snack and water bottle. Additionally, sometimes we hand-out candy prizes after games/activities. If this is not OK, please tell the teacher before the first day of class and we will have a substitute prize ready. If your child is enrolled in an all day program (longer than 3 hours), please pack a healthy lunch and let us know about any severe allergies.
- 11Due to constantly changing water and weather conditions, the day's program schedule, focus, and travel location is subject to change.
- 12A parent/guardian/caretaker is required to sign your child in and out each day.
- 13Staff has work/personal obligations after closing time each day and/or we run back-to-back programs that require the teacher leave the camp location, it is imperative you pick up your student on time. Please consider weather/traffic conditions and have an alternative pick-up plan with neighbors, relatives, or friends to ensure on time pick-up. Please be mindful of the teacher’s time and arrive no later 5 minutes after scheduled pick-up time. If a child is not picked up on time, a $5 fine will be charged for the first 10 minutes and $5 for every 5-minute period thereafter. Payment is expected at time of pick up. If no means of immediate payment is possible, parents will be required to pay at drop off the next day. Director will be sole judge of waiving fees due to any uncontrollable circumstance. If a parent/guardian does not arrive for pick up within 30 minutes of pick-up time and staff has not been able to speak with a parent/guardian and/or all other contacts have been exhausted, police will be notified for assistance. Repetitive late pick-up or non-payment of late fees may result in suspension of class privileges.
- 14We have three values at our school: 1. Be kind to yourself 2. Be kind to others 3. Be kind to nature 4. Connect with each other 5. Have fun!
- 15If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us at (360) 900-2272 or info@thesalishseaschool.org.
- 16Guardians of the Sea Jr - you must be 11-14 years old at the time of the program. Guardians of the Sea - you must be 14-18 years old at the time of the program.
- 17A USCG Captain, deckhand/naturalist (college intern, guest speaker/researcher), and a maximum of 5 students.
- 18There is an enclosed, hard-top cabin with comfortable seats.
- 19Skyline Marina, Anacortes, WA
- 20Read about a sample daily schedule here.
- 21If you're prone to motion sickness, take your preferred remedy in the morning. We also provide Dramamine on the boat if needed. Generally, seasickness isn't a problem as the Salish Sea's waters are calm and protected.
- 22Dress in comfortable layers! It can feel 10-20 degrees cooler on the water and warmer on the islands. Suggested attire includes a short sleeve shirt, wool sweater/fleece, long pants, and a waterproof jacket. For footwear, bring hiking shoes and intertidal exploration shoes like rainboots or Tevas. No flip flops, please! Feel free to reach out with any questions.
- 23Yes. You will be encouraged to use the marina facilities prior to embarking but there will be a very basic marine head on the boat with a curtain for privacy. We will be stopping at nearby islands with port-a-potty's every few hours.
- 24Space is limited on the boat! You shouldn't need much except an excited and curious spirit. Other than that a SMALL bag with your extra layers, sunscreen, sunglasses, snack (lots of snacks!), and re-usable water bottle.
- 25When weather conditions don't allow boat-based activity, we will experience all of the incredible beauty and wonder of Fidalgo Island. Furthermore, the vessel and captain(s) all meet strict requirements by the US Coast Guard.
- 26We will accommodate any special dietary needs for lunch and snacks. There will be a form to fill out during enrollment to notate special medical/dietary needs.
- 27The high temperatures are usually around 70-75 degrees. Surprising to some, the summers don't have much rain or clouds, so be sure to pack and wear your sunscreen. Layers are best! Being underway on the water typically feels 10-15 degrees cooler than the land and the weather can change throughout the day. It is best to be prepared for a range of conditions by dressing in layers for the boat ride and removing the layers when we land on an island for a hike.
- 28Guardians will continue in the rain. We do not go out in excessively heavy rain or big seas, in this event, we will change our meeting location to a local beach on Fidalgo Island or travel on the Anacortes Ferry to a local island.
- 29The Salish Sea School is committed to providing programs and services accessible to individuals with needs for accommodations. Requests will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Please contact Amy at (703)-477-7432 or info@thesalishseaschool.org at least 60 days before program start date to discuss how we may best accommodate your student's needs
- 30Absolutely! Feel free to bring your own snacks. We suggest using reusable containers to minimize waste and don't forget your reusable water bottle! 😊
- 31Yes! We work hard to bring the participant into the moment and totally immersed in his/her surroundings by unplugging from their phones, but cameras are allowed. Water-proof camera cases or covers are recommended!
- 32There are many wonderful places to stay in or near Anacortes. Check out our places to stay page for a variety of recommendations!
- 33There is never a guarantee to see whales. Our main focus is to introduce students to the incredible Salish Sea marine ecosystem. Come with the the expectation to have fun, be present in the moment, and become a leader in marine conservation to help the environment in which all of the incredible marine life, including whales, depends!
- 34The Salish Sea School is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit that is dedicated to creating programs that get students on our shores and/or waterways, and empower student leaders to transform and protect our oceans.
- 35Marine Conservation Ecology focuses on marine organisms and ocean ecosystems and aims to prevent/limit their degradation from human impact.
- 36Absolutely! With the help of incredible local and state programs that have provided grants to The Salish Sea School, there are scholarships available. Please email info@thesalishseaschool.org to inquire about a scholarship application.
- 37The daily schedule and route will be dependent on weather conditions. However, some of the places we intend to visit when timing and weather align include: Sucia Island, Matia Island, James Island, Lopez Island, Vendovi Island, Bowman Bay, Coronet Bay, Deception Pass State Park, Cypress Island, Yellow Island, San Juan Island (The Whale Museum and Orca Survey and Outreach Center by Center for Whale Research), and much more!
- 38Yes, we offer a 10% discount for active duty and veteran family members. Thank you for your service! Please contact us for more details.
- 39No, our trips do not include overnight sessions. Students need daily transportation to and from the marina in Anacortes, WA. Skagit Transit buses have a drop-off location near the marina.
- 40Book online!
- 41The Salish Sea School will not pro-rate the cost of a program if a student is absent one or more days.
- 42We accept checks, money orders, or credit cards. All credit card payments are processed online using a secure server. There is a $50 service charge for all returned checks. Please review our cancellation policy.
- 43Check out our "Policices and Procedures" tab and/or Contact us!
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