WOODBURY — Engaged with hands-on tasks and exciting new experiences every day, there’s never a dull moment in Nonnewaug’s aquaculture class. 

Students take on the responsibility of a variety of daily jobs, including feeding the fish, routine water changes, checking the systems, and ensuring that everything is running smoothly. 

That’s not all that the class does, though. Field trips to the Sound School in New Haven, catching fish in the pond, and looking at organisms under microscopes are just a few of the unique activities students do in aquaculture class. 

The class equips students with practical skills and lays a solid foundation for future careers in marine biology, environmental sciences and more. 

“Being in aquaculture has helped me prepare for my future career in marine sciences,” said Mason Pieger, a Nonnewaug senior. 

The program also extends its learning experiences beyond just the classroom by regularly donating plants grown on each side of the aquaculture greenhouses to the local food banks, showcasing commitment to the community. 

“We’re able to contribute to the community and it’s a great teaching experience for the students,” said Leanne Golembeski, the aquaculture instructor. “They have a strong understanding of how much of an impact our produce makes and the circle effect of us growing the plants, then delivering them.”