Enrichment trips are a key component of the “I Have A Dream” Foundation – Los Angeles (IHADLA) program. Through enrichment trips, we seek to spark our students’ imaginations, inspire their curiosity for learning, and introduce them to careers they can pursue in the future. STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) topics and fields are often a key focus during these trips because we strive to introduce our students (whom we call “Dreamer scholars”) to the many growing careers involving the sciences. During one of our most recent enrichment trips, our Dreamer scholars had the opportunity to learn about marine animals and life science careers during a fun-filled visit to the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach!

IHADLA Dreamer scholars Learn About the Importance of Marine Life During Aquarium STEM Trip

This enrichment trip provided a great opportunity for the Dreamer scholars to lean about STEM and the importance of marine life while bonding with their peers and creating fun memories. The trip was packed with activities, and the Dreamer scholars got to check out many of the aquarium’s areas, including exhibits focused on amphibians and sea jellies. The Dreamer scholars also had the opportunity to ask the Aquarium of the Pacific staff questions about all the animals they saw.

The Dreamer scholars got to see many different types of marine animals — from fish and sharks to stringrays and pengiuns. But they were especially delighted by the strange and intriguing jellyfish. They even got to touch some of the non-poisonous species in a smaller exhibit! The Dreamer scholars were fascinated to learn that not all jellyfish are actually poisonous, and they were excited to hear from the aquarium staff about all the biological reasons why some jellyfish are poisonous and some aren’t. For some Dreamer scholars, it was their first time touching a jellyfish, and the looks of amazement and excitement on their faces as they touched the animals were unforgettable.

After the exciting and informative tour through the aquarium, the Dreamer scholars ended their day by relaxing in nearby Rainbow Bay. They shared their favorite trip moments with each other and ate their lunches next to the Lions Lighthouse for Sight. The trip was great fun for all the Dreamer scholars, and they headed home with a stronger appreciation for the oceans and all the different animals that live in them. And maybe, in the future, one of our inspired Dreamer scholars will be the one educating the next generations about marine animals and their importance in our world.

We look forward to bringing you more news as our Dreamer scholars continue to grow and learn more about the world in future enrichment trips!

More Photos From the Dreamer scholars’ STEM Trip to the Aquarium of the Pacific