Step up For Students

  • Captain Gordie’s Coastal Classroom is a hands-on marine education experience aboard my boat, designed to help students learn about our local waters through exploration, science, and adventure. Current offerings include Coastal 101, 102, and 103 learning experiences.

  • Families using eligible Step Up for Students scholarships may be able to use funds toward approved educational enrichment experiences, depending on program eligibility and scholarship guidelines.

  • Ideal for elementary through high school students. Experiences can be adjusted based on age, curiosity, learning goals, and prior experience on the water.

  • Teaching and being on the water have both been lifelong passions of mine.

    My background includes:

    • B.S. in Environmental Science

    • USCG Licensed Captain

    • 5 years teaching partner-nation forces in Air Force Special Operations

    • Experience teaching a wide variety of technical and operational subjects, primarily in Spanish

    • Lifelong passion for fishing, marine environments, and hands-on learning

    I believe some of the best learning happens through real-world experiences, curiosity, and adventure.

  • The vessel accommodates up to 6 passengers total.

    Ideal group sizes:

    • Up to 4 students with 2 adults

    • Minimum of 2 students per trip

    Smaller groups help keep the experience interactive, safe, and personalized.

  • Families can allocate their selected Coastal Classroom experience directly through the Step Up for Students Education Market Assistant (EMA) website using the catalog item numbers below:

    • Coastal 101: Catalog Item 20126097

    • Coastal 102: Catalog Item 20126098

    • Coastal 103: Catalog Item 20126099

    Once your class is allocated, I will receive the notification and we can coordinate directly to schedule your experience.

    Current standard class times are:

    • Tuesdays: 9:00 AM–12:00 PM or 1:00 PM–4:00 PM

    • Wednesdays: 9:00 AM–12:00 PM or 1:00 PM–4:00 PM

    If those times do not fit your schedule, custom dates and times may be coordinated based on availability.