Last week, the Lower School held Sharkfest as part of its science curriculum, expanding the annual event to include a broader focus on ocean life and conservation.

In past years, Sharkfest and Shark Week activities centered primarily on sharks. This year, science teachers Kerry Morris (grades 1–4) and Dr. Holly Martin (grade 5) broadened the theme to What’s Happening in Our Oceans.

“These children are the future caretakers of planet Earth,” Morris said. “If you don’t know what’s happening, you don’t know that something needs to be done.”

Each grade studied a different topic related to ocean ecosystems. First-grade students focused on coral reefs; second graders studied ocean mammals; third graders explored invertebrates; fourth graders examined fishing techniques; and fifth graders researched endangered species and ways individuals can help protect them.

During the event, students, parents and teachers moved through the Lower School to view student-created displays. Students shared facts about ocean animals, their habitats and environmental challenges affecting marine life.

Morris said students were eager to share what they had learned and ask questions about possible solutions.

“I was surprised by how emotional some of them were,” she said. “They didn’t know these issues existed.”

One display invited students to share ideas for helping protect the oceans.

“The ideas might sound unrealistic,” Morris said, “but some of them could be solutions. It’s part of the way we encourage students to think critically and consider problems from different angles.”