Tybee Post #1

We're wrapping up our first full day at Burton 4-H Center, and I'd like to give parents a glimpse into our day so you can see what your children (and chaperones) have been up to. While we understand that some of you may desire more frequent photo updates, our standard practice is to capture moments throughout the day and post them in the afternoon. Due to limited internet and cell coverage at the camp, posting updates in real-time is challenging and also time-consuming. Our priority is to be fully present with the students as they are doing these fun things. However, rest assured, a comprehensive photo album will be shared soon via the school’s Facebook page.

The day began with students rising between 6 and 6:30 am, depending on their assigned dormitory. Girls are accommodated together, while boys are divided into two separate dorms. We're sharing the camp with two other groups of 5th graders from Christian schools in Virginia and Augusta, GA. During free time and meals, our students mingle with theirs, but they attend classes exclusively with our group. These classes are organized into four learning groups, each named after animals found on or around the island (Manatees, Sea Turtles, Alligators, and Raccoons).

The morning featured two different classes. The first, "Cheloniology," focused on sea turtles, covering their life cycles, habitats, adaptations, and challenges. The second class, "Teuthology," explored squids and included the first dissection of the trip.

After lunch, the group participated in two additional classes: "Coastal Critters" and "Salt Marsh Ecology." In "Coastal Critters," students learned about the diverse range of animals in the coastal environment. They had hands-on experiences holding various species of snakes, a baby alligator, crabs, and several marine invertebrates. Later, they were bused out to one of the island's many saltwater marshes, where they hiked into the marsh to learn about its ecosystem and its crucial role in flood control. They also enjoyed activities such as crab chasing and snail spotting, with some adventurous students even opting for "mud facials."

After dinner, students headed to the beach for their final class of the day on beach ecology, followed by a chance to witness the sunset. Everyone is thriving and having a blast in this unique outdoor learning environment.