The countdown is on.
Twelve teachers from across the state are packing their bags with everything they need for the upcoming Tropical Ecology Institute. Convertible quick dry pants, umbrella, camera, binoculars, water bottle, rain gear, sunscreen, snorkel gear … and the list goes on and on. It is at this point that we all begin to wonder “Will all of this fit into my duffel?” And yet every year, somehow it does.
Thirty-one years ago the first Tropical Ecology Institute for educators took place. While today’s trip takes advantage of advances in technology, improved roads, and access to new locations in Belize, at its heart, is it the same experience. It is designed to give educators a first-hand experience in tropical ecology, which will improve their ability to teach students across North Carolina. It is not a vacation in the tropics, it is an immersion in the tropics. While participants gain new factual knowledge, they also develop a deep appreciation for Belize and her people, and learn new skills to take back to their classrooms. Teachers return refreshed, inspired and more committed to improving science education across the state.
We cannot wait for it to begin.
21 COMMENTS
Beth Campbell
5 years ago
An amazing experience is worthy of such anticipation! Wishing everyone safe travels and grand experiences!
Janet Havens
5 years ago
Congratulations to you all for being chosen for such a wonderful trip! I’m so excited for my daughter, Shannon Haynes, and am looking forward to seeing pictures and reading about your experiences as you visit these incredibly beautiful places! Safe travels!
Liz Baird
5 years ago
AUTHORShannon says she is “carrying you with her on this trip”
Janet Havens
5 years ago
Love it! That girl is my best friend!!
Taylar Flythe
5 years ago
Wishing you all safe travels! Soak it all in, its an amazing experience!
Grandma MCSwain
5 years ago
I know we will hear some really great stories from Rachel when you all return home! My prayers will be with everyone on this great trip. So proud for all of you
Grandma MCSwain
5 years ago
I know we will hear some really good stories from Rachel when she returns home.My prayers will be with everyone on this great trip. So proud ” for” all of you.
Larry McSwain
5 years ago
Congratulations and Good Luck to all but especially my beautiful and incredibly smart niece Rachel Carter.
May the road rise to meet you,
may the wind be ever at your back.
May the sun shine warm upon your face,
and the rains fall soft upon your fields.
And until we meet again,
may God hold you in the palm of his hand.
Judy Harris
5 years ago
Hope you all have arrived & settled in at your first home away from home, Duplooy’s Jungle Lodge. Was your flight on time so you could visit the Bermudian Landing Howler Monkey Sanctuary? So excited for my daughter ,Karen Harris Barker, to have been selected for this adventure with others that share her love of God’s creation & desire for “excellence in education”!
Lauren daniel
5 years ago
Hey! Did anyone have any animals eat out of their hand yet? What were the howler monkeys up to? What are some unexpected things you’re noticing and observing? Cant wait to follow your adventure! -lauren d.
Melissa Harris
5 years ago
I know your mind must be racing from the whirlwind of the day. Open your senses to all of the sounds, smells and experiences.
Debbie dion
5 years ago
Happy birthday Linda. Have a great day. Debbie and norm
Liz Baird
5 years ago
AUTHORThanks!
Green Teens
5 years ago
Hello!
Green Teen campers from the NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher following along. We are curious:
1) How long will you be in Belize?
2) What specific things will you be doing?
3) Will you go spearfishing for invasive lionfish while you are in Belize?
Thank you!
Green Teen campers
Liz Baird
5 years ago
AUTHORHello Green Teens!
Thanks for your interest and writing in your questions!
1. We will be in Belize for 9 days.
2. So far we have visited the Community Baboon Sanctuary and seen Black Howler Monkeys. Then we drove west and are staying at duPlooy’s Jungle Lodge. This morning we spotted a Keel-Billed Toucan – the national bird of Belize. We visited to different caves and played in a waterfall this afternoon. You can refer to the itinerary to see what else is on the schedule for the upcoming days, but tomorrow we will be exploring Mayan Ruins and canoeing down the Macal River.
3. Even thought they are invasive, we will not be spear-fishing for Lionfish. Its good to be thinking about native species versus invasive species. We did see a non-native species of lizard, a house Gecko. House Geckoes are native to Asia. out guide Nathan said he never saw these lizards growing up in Belize – it is only recently that he can find them here.
Katherine Ruffolo
5 years ago
Happy Birthday Linda! Have a great day!
Katherine, Mike, Olivia, and William
Liz Baird
5 years ago
AUTHORThank you! It was a great day!
Nancy
5 years ago
Happy B’day Linda!!!! Nancy, Marv, & Lexi!
Liz Baird
5 years ago
AUTHORLinda has had a fabulous birthday exploring caves, playing in waterfalls and enjoying tres leeches cake!
Melissa Harris
5 years ago
How is the bird watching going? Have you spotted any for the first time Nathan and Liz? Please send regards to Nathan.
Liz Baird
5 years ago
AUTHORthanks! No new birds yet but some fabulous insects including a helicopter damselfly!