By: Michela Sales
Since 1984, NJSOC has had the honor of welcoming the 6th grade students from Jordan Road School in the Somers Point School District. This long-standing tradition has fostered an incredible relationship between Somers Point and NJSOC, creating lasting memories and deepening students’ connections with the environment. This year’s 3-day, 2-night trip was filled with special moments, as the students had the opportunity to engage in hands-on learning experiences that they’ll carry with them for years to come.
This year, the students participated in a variety of classes that sparked creativity, promoted problem-solving, and taught them valuable skills. Whether they were navigating through the corral with a map and compass, exploring the world of early settlers, or diving into the art of metalsmithing and conservation photography, the students were fully immersed in their surroundings.
One of the highlights of the trip was the rare opportunity to participate in ice fishing. Due to the mild winters in recent years, Lake Wapalanne has not been able to freeze over sufficiently to offer ice fishing, but this year’s cold snap changed that. The students were thrilled to step onto the ice, fishing poles in hand, tip-ups in the water, for a hands-on experience unlike any other. Over two days, the students caught a total of 8 fish—7 largemouth bass and 1 bluegill sunfish. The largest catch was a 19-inch largemouth bass, a memorable moment for everyone involved. As Lake Wapalanne is a catch-and-release lake, the students gently returned their catches to the water, reinforcing the important lessons of conservation and sustainable practices that are a core part of NJSOC’s mission.
Throughout the trip, the students also took part in activities that challenged them to think about the natural world, conservation and history in unique ways. From learning how early settlers lived in the 19th-century to capturing the beauty of nature through the lens of a camera, each class brought new insights and experiences. Questing, orienteering, and conservation photography allowed students to stretch their problem-solving and creative thinking skills, while metalsmithing gave them a chance to work with their hands and craft something truly special.
For over two decades, the Somers Point School District has been a dedicated supporter of NJSOC’s programming. Teachers and administrators, led by longtime coordinator Devon Kallen—one of the recipients of the NJSOC Changemaker Award—recognize the profound impact that immersive, outdoor learning experiences have on students. As a result, they continue to prioritize trips to NJSOC as a key component of the 6th-grade curriculum. This ongoing collaboration has established a cherished tradition that benefits students, families, and educators alike.
As the students left NJSOC, it was clear that the experiences they had—whether it was learning to navigate the woods, working with metal, or catching fish on the frozen lake—would stay with them long after they returned home. These hands-on, outdoor adventures not only teach academic concepts but also inspire students to develop a deeper respect for nature and their place within it.
The Somers Point 6th graders’ trip to NJSOC this year was a beautiful reminder of the power of outdoor education and the incredible memories it creates. We are so grateful for the strong relationship with the Somers Point School District and look forward to many more years of adventure, exploration, and learning with future generations of changemakers!
