RHEF was happy to help the Class of 2027 set sail aboard the Clearwater last fall (2022) for hands-on experiential learning about the ecology, history, environmental challenges, and importance of the Hudson River. In addition to the “sailing classroom,” students enjoyed a trip to the Hudson River Maritime Museum in Kingston.
Normally, students get this experience during 7th Grade, but Covid and bad weather delayed it twice and increased costs required some extra financial support. It is often the case that water-based activities, especially sailing, are reserved for those with money and means. Many students grow up next to the Hudson River without ever having a positive experience out on the water. The Red Hook Education Foundation was able to ensure that all students who wanted to participate could be transported back through time and experience adventure aboard a boat built in the style of the Dutch vessels that once sailed the river long ago.
For more examples of the kinds of things the 8th graders got to experience aboard the Clearwater, check out this informational video:
