OALA Field Trip to Ocean Beach Park with NESS

On Monday, July 21st students from Ocean Avenue LEARNing Academy took a field trip to Ocean Beach Park where they spent time working with New England Science & Sailing (NESS)! NESS launched their Mobile Classroom in June of 2025 in partnership with the City of New London with the goal of "reaching students and families where they are, delivering hands-on learning in marine science, adventure education, and environmental stewardship throughout New London County". The NESS Mobile classroom made its debut at the Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting Celebration of the New London Community and Recreation Center and has been spending time at Ocean Beach Park for the summer! 

Many of our students took a leap outside their comfort zones during our day with NESS - from even taking a step into the water to interacting with sea creatures of all shapes and sizes. The shallow waters of the cove gave our students the perfect opportunity to explore the water and have some fun. They gave kayaking a try, floated around on boogie boards, and splashed in the waters. The staff at NESS was kind and patient with our students, taking time to show them the variety of marine life right there in the cove. This was the perfect day of learning, discovery, and fun in the sun! 

A very special thank you to Ocean Beach Park and NESS for hosting us! We look forward to continuing this partnership and having more adventures in the future. To see more photos of their adventures, go check out our Facebook page!