Author: Amanda Aguayo, Visual Arts Teacher at Gravelly Hill Middle School and DNCR Teacher Ambassador
Let’s be honest—chaperoning a field trip with three energetic 9-year-old boys isn’t exactly anyone’s idea of a relaxing day. But there I was, bright-eyed (okay, maybe bleary-eyed) and ready for roll call at 5:45 a.m., boarding a charter bus bound for the Outer Banks. While I may have questioned my sanity at the time, what unfolded that day became one of the most memorable experiences of my career as an educator—and one of the most heartwarming moments of motherhood as I got to witness pure joy in my own children’s eyes.
As the sun rose and the hours passed (with no shortage of snacks and chatter), we knew we were getting close when the bus rumbled over the Croatan Sound. Our destination: Jennette’s Pier in Nags Head. We rolled in just after 10:00 a.m., right on time for a fascinating presentation on marine mammals. The students were captivated as they learned what defines a mammal and how ocean pollution affects these incredible creatures—especially dolphins.
Marine Mammals & Mystery
The hands-on learning began immediately. Students became marine biologist "first responders," tasked with solving the mystery of stranded dolphins. Working in small teams, they rotated through stations, piecing together clues, reading, collaborating, and using their problem-solving skills to determine what led to each dolphin’s demise. The level of teamwork and engagement was impressive.
Racing Airboats on the Pier
From there, we headed to a new challenge: the airboat races. With tables full of building supplies and miniature solar panels, students were charged with designing sturdy airboats to compete against other teams. The energy was electric. Fourth graders buzzed with excitement as they tested ideas, made adjustments, and cheered wildly during the final races on the pier. It was one of those rare moments where learning and joy blended seamlessly—and the chaperones couldn't help but smile as the students beamed with pride.
Squid Dissection—Slimy and Spectacular
Then came our final adventure of the day: squid dissection. This activity pushed a few students outside their comfort zones (and, let’s be honest, a few opted for some fresh air instead), but those who participated were mesmerized. There was a lot of “ewwww” and “whoa!” as students explored the anatomy of these slippery cephalopods. It was messy, it was a little smelly—but it was unforgettable.
By 1:00 p.m., we gathered in the meeting hall to eat our brown-bag lunches, tired but fulfilled. Our time at Jennette’s Pier had come to an end, but the impact will last far longer. The kids didn’t just learn science that day—they lived it. They collaborated, questioned, explored, and grew.
And as for the “torture” I thought I signed up for? Turns out, it was anything but. It was magic.
Want to Plan a Similar Field Trip?
If this sounds like the kind of experience your students would love, reach out to the team at Jennette’s Pier—they’re incredibly welcoming and knowledgeable. Also, take advantage of the Learning Happens Here field trip fund through the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR). There are over 100 incredible DNCR sites across the state, each one ready to help your students dive into history, science, the arts, and nature in unforgettable ways.
Let your students see, touch, and feel their learning come to life—you won’t regret it.
About the Author: Amanda Aguayo is the Visual Arts teacher at Gravelly Hill Middle School in Efland, NC, teaching grades 6-8. She has 15 years of teaching experience, prides herself in building relationships with students, co-workers and creating a safe, wholesome learning environment. She is a fierce advocate for mental healthcare and equitable practices in the classroom which led her to dive into choice based pedagogy that she offers her students through implementing Teaching for Artistic Behaviors, which amplifies student choice and voice. Amanda is a 2024 LatinxEd Fellow and the 2024 North Carolina Art Education Association Middle Level Art Educator of the Year.
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