Kelso Students Launch Hand-Built Miniboats on Pacific Ocean Voyage

Students and teachers gathered in Kelso, Washington last Thursday. They met at the Columbia River Maritime Museum for a special event. Their mission was to christen two student-built “miniboats.”
The children constructed the vessels over ten weeks. They learned about ship design and naval science. Therefore, the program mixed hands-on building with core STEM lessons.

Meet the “Survivor” and “Unsinkabear”

One boat was built by a fifth-grade class from Wallace Elementary. They named their vessel “Survivor.” Another fourth-grade class from Barnes Elementary built the “Titanic Unsinkabear.”
This christening was the program’s exciting finale. The small boats will soon be released into the Pacific Ocean. Consequently, they will join a fleet of over 30 other school-built boats.

A Journey to Track Online

The mini-vessels are equipped with GPS trackers. Anyone can follow their ocean journey online. This allows the students to see the results of their hard work.
The boats will be carried out to sea on a large cargo ship. Then, they will be released to sail on ocean currents. Their route will be a lesson in geography and oceanography.

Learning Through Hands-On Fun

Teacher Tangi Bennett praised the program’s engaging approach. She noted the students learned without even realizing it. The project provided an amazing hands-on activity for everyone.
For educator Nathan Yeh, the ten-week cycle was a highlight. It allowed him to form a deeper connection with the students. This relationship is harder to build during shorter school visits.

A Ceremony of Tradition and Celebration

The event featured student presentations and poems. The children shared what they learned and wished the boats good luck. Then, they performed a traditional christening ceremony.
They placed branches on the boats for a safe return. Next, they smashed sugar glass bottles against the hulls. Finally, the group celebrated with a joyful orange juice toast.