News Photo by Shannon Vivero Third-grade students learn that the Great Lakes spell “HOMES” and how the water flows, as Daniel Moffatt points out areas of the Great Lakes region on Monday at the Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center in Alpena.

ALPENA — On Monday morning, 22 third-grade students from Ella White arrived at the Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center bright and early to start a three-week learning session. The first session topic is, “Humans and the Great Lakes.”

“It’s an immersive experience where they are understanding Michigan history through the lens of their marine sanctuary that’s located right in their hometown,” said Stephanie Gandulla, resource protection coordinator at Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary. “It’s a real active program. The kids are up and they’re moving, and they’re building, and they’re learning.”

“This position is so fulfilling. I get to witness student discovery of their town and how it fits into the larger story of Great Lakes history,” said Stewardship and Education Specialist Daniel Moffatt.

As session one started, Moffatt asked students, “How many shipwrecks do you think are in the sanctuary?” An excited third-grader answered, “200!” Moffatt, who does educational outreach for the museum, was very surprised the student was correct.

Moffatt brought energy to the room and was able to engage with students to keep the topics interesting, fun and educational. This program was developed for third graders that aligned with the Michigan state standards of Michigan history.

“How do you become a shipwreck hunter?” asked a student. Moffatt answered, “You can learn to scuba dive and explore shipwrecks as a hobby, or you can do it as a career and become a maritime archaeologist.”

Moffatt continued to explain each session throughout the program, ending with, “In May you will go on the glass bottom boat.” Students were excited and clapped for the fun excursion.

Students also took part in a timeline activity to see how humans evolved around the Great Lakes since 10,000 B.C. to today.

Reach Shannon Vivero at svivero@thealpenanews.com.