Quotes from parents of Salish participants:

"I would like to thank all the people that make Girls on the Sound a success. My daughter, Kayla, has grown so much. All the activities that she has taken part in really brought a smile to her face. Thank you so much for what you've done not only for Kayla but all the girls you have touched."
John Williams ('03 GOTS dad)

 “My daughter went this past Thursday and Friday and loved it, the teachers are reporting life changing type results for some of the kids. The reports I get is that your staff was unbelievably hard working and knowledgeable. Thanks again.”
-parent of a Gatewood Elementary student who went on an expedition with her 5th grade class in the spring of 2003

“I can't thank you enough for getting us on the Salish Expedition. It was incredible! I returned tonight with Team 5 and I loved every minute of it! I too will have fantastic memories of everything we learned, shared, and experienced. Thanks again!”
parent of a Gatewood Elementary student who served as a chaperone with her daughter’s 5th grade class in the spring of 2003

“I saw students so absorbed in their tasks that they became oblivious to the social groupings that are observed at school.”
Parent International Community School

“Our daughter beams when she tells someone about her Salish experience. My husband and I are so grateful that this program is available. We wish we could have gone, too!”
Parent Zilah, WA

Quotes from students:

“You made me really look at science from a different perspective.”
Julie Shultz, Seattle student

“ This is twenty times better than a regular science class because you get to experince everything.”
Middle School Student, Tacoma, WA

“ Once you do what you learn , it makes it a million times better.”
 High School Marine Science Student, Arlington, WA

“I had a blast on my Salish Sea expedition. I was a little worried beforehand because I’m not someone that likes to be away from home. This trip changed everything.”
High School Student Arlington, WA

The best part was learning the different types of plankton and being at the helm"
Federal Way Public Academy student]

“I learned so many new things about my friends, myself, the boat and the sea.”
Annie Wright Student

“What an experience! I enjoyed it so much and was amazed at all I learned in such a short time. Thank you for all of your time and effort, and all that you shared with us.”
Ericka Johnson, 10th Grade Ecology Student, Arlington High School

Quotes from teachers:

“I believe the Salish Sea Expeditions program is the best field science experience available for secondary students. The staff share their expertise and guide students through scientific studies, navigational skills, and cooperative learning. My students have always returned with a far greater understanding of the marine environment, responsibility, and a more developed view of research using applied science.”
Penny Hood, 8th Grade teacher, Port Susan Middle School

“Your remarkable crew of educators was able to help our diverse group of students reach their full potential as sailors and scientists. Since we had students ranging in age from 11 years to 18 years and a number of adults, the challenge to meet their needs was great and the Carlyn crew did a wonderful job helping each student and adult. As a group, we learned to persevere with poor weather conditions and help each other. We developed a true sense of family and acceptance of others while on board the Carlyn.”
District Science Fair Coordinators of the Puyallup School District and Boy scout trip leader, Sue Field

"I feel so blessed to have witnessed your amazing program. It was wonderful working with you. You have touched so many lives and will remain in all of the wonderful memories when girls become women!"
Ceci Valenzuela, After School Program Coordinator at Aki Kurose Middle School

“This trip met and exceeded my expectations, not simply from a science perspective but as an experience these kids will remember. “
College Place Middle School Teacher

“The knowledgeable and flexible staff capitalize on teachable moments and are sensitive to the interests of students.”
Jeff Whidden, Teacher Mount Baker Middle School.

“This trip made classroom experiences real and exciting. Students are still talking about the fun they had, and they are showing much more interest in my classroom science program.”   
High School Science teacher, Seattle WA

Quotes from colleagues:

“By investigating real-world water-quality issues of Puget Sound, empowering students with action research and problem-solving skills, viewing science through a social context, and exploring potential career opportunities, Salish Sea Expeditions addresses a critical need for engaging, meaningful and relevant educational opportunities for high school students.”
Kim A. Freier, Ed.D., Continuing Education, Central Washington University

“This program directly enhances students’ education and future quality of life. It provides an exciting connection between students, classrooms, environmental education, career exploration and experiential education.”
Craig Smith, Ship’s Operations Coordinator, Sea Education Association