"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.
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Summer STaRS: Become a Marine Research Scientist!
Four days on the water. One day exploring on land. Five incredible days of real-world marine science and discovery!
Ready to take your love of the ocean to the next level? Climb aboard and experience what it's really like to be a marine scientist in the spectacular San Juan Islands!
Summer STaRS (Student Training as Research Scientists) is an immersive, five-day research adventure where students go beyond learning about marine science to actually DOING it!
Each day brings new opportunities to investigate the Salish Sea, collect scientific data, and develop the skills researchers use to study and protect our marine ecosystems.
What will our young scientists investigate?
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Intertidal Ecology: Survey marine species and investigate where they live and how abundant they are.
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Whales of the Salish Sea: Practice visual observations and acoustic monitoring to learn how scientists study marine mammals (whale sightings not guaranteed).
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Kelp Forests: Explore the importance of bull kelp and practice monitoring techniques.
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Seabird Science: Observe, identify, and collect data on marine birds.
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Forage Fish Research: Conduct egg surveys and discover why these tiny fish are so important to the marine food web.
And the best part? The Salish Sea becomes their research laboratory!
Students will spend four days (11-4PM) aboard our 48-foot Koinonia, exploring the waterways and islands of the Salish Sea, plus one full day conducting field investigations on land.
With just 14 students, this exclusive small-group experience provides opportunities to work alongside knowledgeable marine educators, use scientific equipment, ask questions, and develop real field research skills.
Throughout the week, students will practice the scientific method, collect and analyze data, sharpen their observation skills, and discover how scientific research helps guide conservation efforts.
More than just a summer camp, Summer STaRS is an opportunity to think like a scientist, work as a team, build confidence, and discover what a future in marine science or conservation could look like!
Explore. Investigate. Discover. Protect. Your marine science adventure starts here!
Life jackets are provided and required.
Student Outcomes:
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Practice applying the scientific method in real-world settings
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Hands-on experience using field research tools and techniques
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Increased confidence conducting fieldwork and collecting data
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Understanding of how scientific research informs policy and conservation action
Qualifications to enroll:
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Ability to stay focused and attentive while observing in the field for 2-4 hours
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An excitement for learning about local marine life
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The ability to work well with others
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Students should come with basic knowledge about the local marine life and ecosystem
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This is a great opportunity for past Guardians of the Sea students or young science enthusiasts
Program Goals:
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Inspire interest in marine science and conservation careers
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Build a pathway for the next generation of marine scientists and ocean advocates
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Provide meaningful field-based learning that supports academic and career readiness
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Strengthen students’ ability to succeed in higher education through experiential science
Please note: weather conditions will dictate if/when we go out on the water. If conditions do not permit boat travel, we will be exploring all that Fidalgo has to offer or ferry to another island for new adventures.
Camp Details
Ages: 14–18 years
Camp Hours: Monday–Friday, 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Location: Departs from The Salish Sea School Discovery Center at Skyline Marina in Anacortes, WA
Tuition: $1,499 per student
Registration & Deposit: Reserve your student's spot with an $850 registration payment, which includes a $350 non-refundable deposit. The remaining balance is due according to the camp's payment schedule.
Good to Know Before Camp
What to Bring: Students should bring their own lunch, water, and snacks each day. Meals are not provided.
Traveling from afar? Here are some places nearby!
