MBS Students Dive into Coral Research for Senior Project at The Island School

From May 18 to 26, as part of their senior project, seven MBS seniors joined peers from six other schools across the country for an unforgettable experience as part of The Island School’s Senior Research Program in Eleuthera, The Bahamas. Representing MBS were Molly Baker '25, Eric Bergelson '25, Jack Elsevier '25, Evie Lisk '25, Biv McNamara '25, Kait Neate '25, and Jaya Varma '25. They were joined by students from the Brearley School (NYC), Milton Academy (MA), Severn School (MD), Community School (MI), Northwest School (WA), and McDonogh School (MD). Upper School Science faculty member Brad Turner P '26, traveled with the group to support the Island School staff and assist students throughout the program.

This unique program brought together a diverse group of students, including former semester and summer-term Island School participants, students from spring break visiting programs, and some who were experiencing the Island School for the first time. Their mission: to learn how to conduct scientific research underwater in coral reef ecosystems.

Before arriving, students completed asynchronous coursework, which included e-learning for PADI Open Water SCUBA certification and foundational research on coral reefs and experimental design. Once in Eleuthera, they finalized their SCUBA certifications and took additional training such as the PADI Reef Rescue and PADI Project AWARE: Coral Reefs courses.

Throughout the week, students engaged directly with scientists from the Cape Eleuthera Institute. They learned about coral breeding, coral nursery maintenance, and the process of transplanting coral back into reef ecosystems. During two of their nine total dives, the students participated in maintaining coral nurseries, scrubbing algae from PVC structures and inspecting for pests.

A significant part of their experience involved learning how to collect scientific data underwater. This included practicing skills like buoyancy control, underwater navigation, and the use of research tools such as quadrats, transect lines, species ID slides, and dive slates.

The culmination of the week was a series of research presentations delivered to a panel including Island School founder Chris Maxey, participating scientists, visiting program coordinator Becca Crummett, and Brad Turner. Presentation topics included:

• The impact of different parrotfish species on coral health
   
• Substrate preferences of soft corals
   
• A comparison of algal cover at two reef sites of differing depths
   
• The relationship between reef health and proximity to the pelagic zone drop-off
   

Following their final research presentations, students enjoyed one last dive at the renowned Split Rock site, where they were thrilled to swim among a group of Caribbean Reef Sharks. The trip concluded with a celebratory tour of local attractions, including Cathedral Caves and a farewell bonfire on the beach.

Throughout the program, the students demonstrated impressive resilience, teamwork, and curiosity. Despite challenges like managing buoyancy, limited underwater communication, and the physical toll of daily dives, they tackled real-world scientific research with focus and enthusiasm. In just over a week, they bonded as a group, overcame environmental challenges, and gained invaluable experience in marine science.

Their dedication, character, and passion for learning made this an inspiring and memorable trip for all involved.