Science Sets Sail: Spring Lake Intermediate Students Learn on Lake Michigan

Over the last month, Spring Lake Intermediate School students have traded their classroom walls for the open waters of Lake Michigan—transforming science lessons into real-world exploration aboard Grand Valley State University’s DJ Angus Research Vessel.

The DJ Angus, a floating laboratory operated by GVSU’s Annis Water Resources Institute, became both classroom and laboratory for our students. Guided by university instructors and their own teachers, students stepped into the role of scientists—collecting water, plankton, and sediment samples directly from the lake and analyzing them in the ship’s onboard lab.

Each test, measurement, and observation connected directly to the concepts students have been studying in class: ecosystems, environmental health, and the science of sustainability. But unlike reading about water quality or aquatic life in a book, students experienced it firsthand—testing pH levels, examining microscopic organisms, and seeing the impact of natural processes right before their eyes.

“It’s one thing to talk about the Great Lakes,” 6th grade teacher, Katie Bator, said. “It’s another thing entirely to have students on the lake, doing real research. That kind of experience stays with them.”

The partnership between Spring Lake Public Schools and GVSU offers an extraordinary opportunity for hands-on learning. It not only strengthens students’ understanding of science but also nurtures curiosity, teamwork, and a deeper appreciation for the natural resources in our own backyard.

As the waves lapped against the side of the DJ Angus and the skyline of Lake Michigan stretched wide, students weren’t just learning—they were discovering. Each sample told a story about our water, our environment, and the importance of protecting both.

Go Science!