This year, Tabor Academy added “Ocean Week” to its academic calendar. Spearheaded by Captain Virginia Land McGuire, this week-long initiative is the first of its kind. Consisting of a keynote speaker on Monday, reflections in advisories, alumni speakers, and a range of hands-on workshop offerings, Ocean Week allowed all students to appreciate what the ocean has to offer.
Origins of Ocean Week:
“At the beginning of last year, a group of five faculty members formed a committee to focus on what makes learning at Tabor truly unique.” Captain Land explained.
After much reflection, the committee identified the school’s proximity to the sea as a key aspect of Tabor’s identity – the addition of Ocean Week is part of a larger effort to integrate the ocean into our school’s unique learning.
“My goal is to minimize the number of alumni who say they didn’t have the chance to engage with the ocean during their time here,” added Captain Land.
In addition, Ocean Week is designed to celebrate Tabor’s physical connection to the sea and extend that experience into how we interact beyond our community. “Tabor’s access to the ocean offers unique insights and opportunities for engaging with the world,” said Captain Land. After discussions and planning, Head of School Tony Jaccaci gave the green light for Ocean Week at the end of last year.
Keynote Speaker: Dr. Jennifer Francis
This year’s speaker, Dr. Jennifer Francis, is an internationally recognized climate scientist with a deep personal connection to Tabor. A Marion native, she sent both her children to Tabor and now serves as a trustee. Dr. Francis brought her expertise on climate science to Ocean Week, discussing the ocean’s vital and changing role in regulating the climate.
“I appreciated the open minds that students brought to the conversation today,” said Captain Land afterward. Dr. Francis’s talk had students reflect on how our unique location and education at Tabor can extend into how we grapple with complex questions about the future of our climate. “I want to give my kids a planet that is salvageable so that they can give my grandkids a planet that is livable,” reflected Captain Land.
Amidst today’s politically charged climate, Dr. Francis reminded our community to focus on the facts and remember what the ocean has given us.
Ocean Week Workshops
A key feature of Ocean Week was the wide range of workshops, designed to immerse students in ocean-related activities. Faculty members such as Sailing Coach, Mr. Andrew Cornah, played a crucial role in shaping the week’s activities; from Ocean Art and Yoga by the Sea to Kayaking and boat trips, all Tabor students were fully immersed in the waterfront experience.
“We wanted all students to understand that the waterfront is a resource available to all, mentally, emotionally, or academically,” said Captain Land. “Whether or not they’ve been involved in Marine Science or waterfront sports before, this is an opportunity for everyone to connect with the ocean.”
In addition, the activities allowed students who are heavily involved in various aspects of Tabor’s marine identity to showcase their dedication to the ocean. For example, sailors on the Tabor Boy and the Sailing team facilitated hands-on learning sessions for other students. For others, Ocean Week was a chance to explore previously inaccessible activities that hadn’t fit into their schedules. Regardless of previous experience, students were encouraged to appreciate what the ocean had to offer, reflecting on its role in many facets of student life.
Reni Cox ‘26 participated in the Song and Dance of the Sea. Starting in the Campus Center, the students learned about autonomous communities in northern Spain, where the ocean plays a significant role in their identity and livelihoods. Led by Profe Espinel, students then moved to the waterfront and connected with other peers through traditional Galician song and dance.
“It was interesting to learn about different cultures and a really fun experience overall,” said Reni.
In the afternoon, students had a second session: For Reni, this was Ocean Art in the MANNs. Students painted on seashells to bring home with them, helping students feel more connected to the sea no matter where they are in the world.
Looking Ahead
After the successful debut of Ocean Week, Tabor Academy is already looking forward to making it a lasting tradition. When asked about future plans, Captain McGuire expressed optimism.
“There are ways for the ocean to be subtly integrated into our core curriculum,” she said. “We never expect the first time to be perfect, but we hope to take feedback each year to give students the best experience possible.”
As Tabor continues to grow and evolve, Ocean Week has set the foundation for a deeper appreciation of the ocean—one that reflects not only Tabor’s unique physical surroundings but also its commitment to global and environmental citizenship.
“In the end, we want the ocean to mean something to everybody, whether big or small,” concluded Captain Land.
