“The Gray Whale Foundation provides an unforgettable learning experience for our students. Seeing the gray whales in their natural environment brings science to life and deepens their connection to the ocean. Many of our students have never been on a boat before—this experience inspires curiosity, compassion, and a lasting respect for our planet.”
— Kristen Nelson, Principal, RH Dana Elementary School
WHY OUR WORK MATTERS
For many children, the ocean exists only in textbooks and screens.
For some, it’s something to fear.
For others, it’s never been experienced at all.
And yet, the future of our ocean depends on them.
The Gray Whale Foundation exists because we believe conservation does not begin with information—it begins with connection. When a student stands on the deck of a boat, watches a gray whale surface beside them, and hears its breath echo across the water, that moment stays with them.
It changes how they see the ocean.
It shapes how they see their role in protecting it.
Our mission is simple and urgent:
To educate and inspire students through direct, on-the-water experiences that foster lifelong ocean stewardship—regardless of background or access.
THE GAP WE FILL
Hands-on marine science education is proven to be transformative—yet it remains out of reach for many schools.
Budgets are limited.
Transportation is costly.
Field trips are often the first opportunity to be cut.
That’s where we step in.
The Gray Whale Foundation bridges the gap between classroom learning and real-world experience. Through fully guided whale watching field trips and in-school assemblies led by captains, naturalists, and marine educators, we bring science to life—not as theory, but as reality.
We don’t just teach conservation.
We immerse students in it.
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
Grades: 3–12
Duration: Approximately 3 hours (assembly + on-the-water experience)
Focus Areas
What’s Included
Why Teachers Choose This Experience
Scheduling
Focus Areas
- Gray whale migration & behavior
- Marine ecosystems
- Conservation & environmental stewardship
What’s Included
- Pre-trip, in-class educational assembly
- Dedicated whale watching field trip
- Onboard naturalists and educators
- Teacher support materials
Why Teachers Choose This Experience
- First-time ocean and boat experience for many students
- Real-world wildlife observation in a natural environment
- Strong alignment with science and environmental learning goals
Scheduling
Field trips operate Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday to support classroom planning.
“When students step onto the ocean and see whales in their natural environment, learning becomes real. For many, it’s their first time on the water—an experience that turns curiosity into connection and inspires a lifelong respect for our oceans.”
— Captain Todd Mansur, Educational Director & Marine Naturalist
WHY ADMINISTRATORS APPROVE THIS FIELD TRIP
Educationally Purposeful
Supports science and environmental learning objectives through real-world observation and inquiry.
Structured & Supervised
Led by experienced captains and professional naturalists with a clear educational framework.
Mission-Driven Nonprofit
Operated by a nonprofit dedicated to marine education, conservation, and student impact.
Equity-Focused Access
Private-sector funding helps reduce financial barriers, expanding access for schools and students.
Meaningful Outcomes
Encourages curiosity, environmental responsibility, and a lasting connection to the ocean.
We’re happy to provide documentation or additional details to support administrative approval.
CONTACT
Questions? We’re here to help.
Lisa Phillips, School Field Trip Coordinator
surfnphillips@aol.com