Parent-organized fundraiser raises money for renovations and additions in classroom
(From left): Rob and Sarah Lewandowski; Merrick and Alexandra Alpert; Sea Research Foundation President and CEO Dr. Stephen M. Coan; Mary Beth Sweeney, director of early childhood and elementary programs at Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration; and Dionne and Rodney Butler
On May 29, Mystic Aquarium and Institute for Exploration held a parent-organized fundraiser to raise money for renovations and additions, including a sensory area, in its early learning classroom – changes necessary for the Sea School program to become a licensed pre-school program in the state of Connecticut.
Organized by Alexandra Alpert, Dionne Butler and Sarah Lewandowski – parents of Sea Schoolers – the event surpassed the fundraising goal by more than $2,000.
“Sea School has received five-star reviews from parents, and their enthusiasm and support for the program were evident during the fundraiser. We are very grateful to these moms for taking time out of their busy schedules to organize this event, which will help us expand our educational programming,” said Mary Beth Sweeney, director of early childhood and elementary programs at Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration. “These renovations and additions will allow us to increase our Sea School hours, giving our teachers more opportunities to expand our curriculum, which revolves around hands-on, learn-by-doing experiences.”
The fundraiser consisted of dinner and dancing, followed by an auction of items donated by friends and families of Sea School students. Auction items included rarely-offered opportunities, such as a private sleepover for 20 at the aquarium and a behind-the-scenes tour with famed oceanographer and Institute for Exploration Founder and President Dr. Robert Ballard. Families and local businesses also sponsored tables to raise money.
Launched in July 2006, Sea School is a unique program offered to 3- to 5-year-olds that aims to inspire children to care about our oceans and develop a love of learning through hands-on experiences. The two-hour class takes place twice a week (Monday and Wednesday or Tuesday and Thursday) and includes hands-on activities, creative arts and crafts, visits from marine animals and aquarium staff and lessons in science, math and literacy.
A limited number of openings remain for the Sea School session beginning on June 29. Reservations are being accepted for the fall session beginning September 14.
Donations for Sea School are also still being accepted. For more information on the program or to make a donation, call Mary Beth Sweeney at (860) 572-5955, ext. 303.
About Sea Research Foundation, Inc.
Mystic Aquarium, Institute for Exploration and Immersion Presents are divisions of Sea Research Foundation, Inc., a private, non-profit, charitable organization incorporated in the State of Connecticut. The mission of Sea Research is to inspire people to care for and protect our ocean planet through education, research and exploration.
