Students in Mrs. Crisci’s Freshman Life Science Biology class and Ms. Sebert’s Marine Biology class recently took their learning beyond the classroom with an immersive experience aboard the Lake George Floating Classroom.

During the hands-on educational experience, students explored the unique ecosystem of Lake George and learned about the factors that contribute to maintaining its reputation as one of the cleanest lakes in the United States.

The Floating Classroom provided students with an opportunity to connect concepts they have been studying in biology and marine science with a real-world environment. Students learned about water quality, the lake’s ecosystem and the practices and requirements that help protect Lake George for future generations.

Rather than simply learning about water quality from a textbook, students were able to observe and explore the lake firsthand. The experience encouraged students to think like scientists as they considered how environmental factors, human activity and conservation efforts can impact the health of an aquatic ecosystem. For these South Colonie students, the lake became more than a place to visit. It became a living laboratory where science came to life.