Teachers and youth group leaders can immerse their students in hands-on marine science aboard the Karma, the Floating Classroom Program’s 57-foot teaching vessel docked at the municipal marina in downtown Corpus Christi.
     During a two-hour excursion into Corpus Christi Bay from the Lawrence Street T-head, students participate in collecting and observing marine life from microscopic plankton to adult fish, crabs and shrimp. Through interactive demonstrations led by a trained education specialist, students also are introduced to concepts such as salinity, density and heat capacity, while “opportunistic” learning occurs as students observe dolphins, pelicans, and ocean-going ships crossing the bay.
     The boat trip is part of a larger educational program that includes a marine biology primer as well as classroom hands-on demonstrations, all aligned with state educational curricula. Supporting materials, including classroom activities, are available for download.
     Participation is limited to students in grades 4 and above, and groups from public, private or home schools, scout troops or youth clubs are welcome. The Karma can accommodate 25 participants, including teachers and chaperones, on each cruise and can make up to three trips per day. Cruises must be scheduled in advance, and a deposit is required. The program charges a cost recovery fee, but scholarships are often available to defray a portion of the cost.
     The program is operated by the Texas Sea Grant Extension Program in partnership with Texas AgriLife Extension, both components of the Texas A&M University System. The Karma is a U.S. Coast Guard-inspected passenger-for-hire vessel, which means it meets the strictest safety requirements. It is operated by a licensed captain and experienced crew trained to respond to any emergency.