Last February, Manchester Township Middle School (MTMS) received a unique opportunity thanks to three dedicated MTMS teachers who brought the New York Giants and the New Jersey Education Association (NJEA) to Manchester!
Through NJEA’s partnership with the New York Giants, MTMS educators Susan Morgan (Science), Kristine Laporte (Science), and Michael Balog (Social Studies) were recognized for their outstanding work, two as Giants Educators of the Week and one as Educator of the Year. These recognitions came with thousands of dollars in grants awarded by the Giants to support initiatives within their school.
Together, the teachers used their grant funding to launch the Eco Explorers Club, a program designed to give students hands-on opportunities to study the unique ecosystems of Ocean and Monmouth Counties, raise awareness about protecting local environments, and connect science lessons on climate change and human impact to real-world experiences.
Today, the Eco Explorers set out on their very first field trip, which was to Island Beach State Park, where students dove into the park’s diverse ecosystems. The day began at the Interpretive Center, where guides from Friends of Island Beach State Park introduced them to the park’s natural wonders.
Students then split into two groups to maximize their experience: The first group focused on oceanside exploration. They hiked through the Maritime Forest, spotting native plants and wildlife before trekking through the narrow dune path to the beach. There, they discussed the role of dunes and seagrass in protecting the shoreline and participated in a fun scavenger-style challenge, identifying up to 17 different natural items unique to the area.
The second group focused on bayside discovery. They waded into Barnegat Bay with seine nets and even fishing waders. Students discovered an array of aquatic life, including small fish, crabs, mussels, starfish, and other fascinating species, learning firsthand about the bay’s delicate ecosystem.
After swapping locations, each group was ensured the opportunity to experience both land and sea, making it a day full of discovery, teamwork, and excitement.
This first trip was just the beginning for the Eco Explorers Club. With the grant support of NJEA, the New York Giants, and their dedicated teachers, students now have the opportunity to connect classroom learning with the natural world in powerful, hands-on ways.
We can’t wait to see where the Eco Explorers venture next!