Last Thursday, March 27, our 5th-grade students set off on an exciting adventure to the Wisconsin Maritime Museum in Manitowoc. This field trip was a perfect blend of history, science, and hands-on learning, giving students the opportunity to explore Wisconsin’s maritime past while engaging in real-world engineering activities.
One of the biggest highlights of the day was the chance to tour a real submarine, the USS Cobia. Students stepped into the shoes of World War II sailors as they navigated the narrow hallways, peeked into crew quarters, and explored the control rooms. Learning about the submarine’s missions and the challenges sailors faced while living and working underwater left a lasting impression on everyone. The authentic, immersive experience helped bring history to life in a way that no textbook ever could!
In addition to the submarine tour, students got to put their engineering skills to the test in a Remote-Operated Vehicle (ROV) building lab. Working in teams, they designed and built their own small underwater vehicles, learning how engineers develop technology for underwater exploration. This hands-on STEM activity encouraged problem-solving, teamwork, and creativity, which are skills that are essential for future innovators.
Beyond the interactive activities, students gained a deeper appreciation for Wisconsin’s rich maritime history. They learned about the important role the Great Lakes have played in shipping, trade, and naval operations, as well as how the region contributed to submarine production during World War II. Seeing artifacts, models, and exhibits helped them connect classroom lessons to the real world in an exciting and meaningful way.
This field trip was an unforgettable experience that combined history, science, and engineering into one incredible day of learning. It was a joy to see our students so engaged, curious, and excited to explore!
To check out photos from the trip, visit our Facebook page at St. Bernard School or follow us on Instagram at @stbernardgb!
St. Bernard Catholic School is part of the Green Bay Area Catholic Education (GRACE) School System. It is a private Catholic school that serves preschool and elementary through 8th grade (PK3-8) with open enrollment. St. Bernard’s provides an individualized education in a faith-based environment. Each child is supported not only academically, but spiritually.
