ACCESS provides education opportunities by hosting a NOAA Teacher-at-Sea each year. ACCESS has hosted eleven NOAA Teachers-at-Sea to date.
The application and selection process generally takes place during the winter. The deadline for applications is late February (February 28), and applicants are notified by the end of March. The Teacher-At-Sea generally joins the July cruise aboard the NOAA research vessel.
To apply, please complete the application forms (Form A), along with two letters of recommendation (Form B and Form C), and send them to Jennifer Stock, Education and Outreach Coordinator at Cordell Bank National Marine Sanctuary.
You were selected as our new Teacher-At-Sea…
What to expect? What to bring?
Field Season 2018
Pamela Schaffer
Middle school science teacher, Alameda
NOAA R/V Bell M. Shimada
Read the ship logs (July 1-11, 2018)
I have sailed in the sanctuary waters for many years, but it was remarkable to see this area anew through the lens of an ocean scientist. The abundance and diversity of life is phenomenal. Thank you for the opportunity to work alongside an exceptional team of researchers. It is exciting to share this experience with colleagues and students.
Field Season 2017
Jennifer Hartigan
Middle school science teacher, Alameda
NOAA R/V Fulmar
Read the ship logs (July 21-27, 2017)
I gained a much deeper understanding of ecosystem monitoring and its importance for species management and preservation. It inspires me to build coalitions among schools, scientists and community partners to advance ocean literacy. I am grateful for the mentoring provided throughout the cruise.
Field Season 2016
Dana Chu
High school science teacher, Sacramento
NOAA R/V Bell M. Shimada
Read the ship log (May 14-22, 2016)
The hands-on experience, from deploying nets to processing samples, was invaluable. Each collection brought anticipation and discovery. The opportunity to participate in midnight sampling and field research was unforgettable.
Field Season 2015
Michael Wing
High school science teacher, San Anselmo
NOAA R/V Fulmar
Read the ship logs (July 18-25, 2015)
Though never far from home, it felt like another world. I remain deeply grateful to NOAA, Point Blue Conservation Science, and the National Marine Sanctuaries for the opportunity to experience such a special place.
Field Season 2014
Daniel Rivera
High school biology teacher, San Francisco
NOAA R/V Fulmar
Read the ship logs (July 16-24, 2014)
Observing wildlife from a moving vessel requires skill, patience and resilience. The experience highlighted the expertise and dedication required to monitor ocean life in dynamic conditions.
Field Season 2013
Kate Trimlett
High school biology teacher, Berkeley
NOAA R/V Fulmar
Read the ship logs (July 23-29, 2013)
Witnessing a leatherback sea turtle far from its breeding grounds was unforgettable. It connected classroom conservation lessons with real-world marine science in a powerful way.
Field Season 2012
Talia Romito
High school biology teacher, Monterey
NOAA R/V Fulmar
Read the ship logs (July 21-26, 2011)
A life-changing experience filled with meaningful data collection and extraordinary wildlife encounters. The relationships formed and lessons learned remain deeply valued.
Field Season 2011
Elaine Bechler
High school biology teacher, Santa Rosa
NOAA R/V Fulmar
Read the ship logs (July 21-26, 2011)
Life aboard a vessel is invigorating and unpredictable. Participating in survey work provided a deeper understanding of marine research that now enriches classroom instruction.
Field Season 2010
Deborah Moraga
Elementary school science teacher, Ohio
NOAA R/V Fulmar
Read the ship logs (June 21-27, 2010)
Working alongside scientists while observing humpback whales near the vessel was extraordinary. The experience continues to inspire classroom science education.
Field Season 2009
Laurie Guest
Middle school science teacher, California
NOAA R/V Fulmar
No ship logs (July 17-22, 2009)
Participating in research beyond the Golden Gate provided unforgettable encounters with wildlife and scientists, creating lasting stories for the classroom.
Field Season 2008
Beth Lancaster
High school biology teacher, Connecticut
NOAA Ship McArthur II
Read the ship logs (April 6-14, 2008)
Download marine food web lesson plan
This collaboration with the sanctuaries and Point Blue provided hands-on research experience that transformed classroom instruction and contributed to the development of a successful Marine Biology elective course.
