2005 Eric Heltzel

Teacher-at-Sea

The teachers in this program are responsible for providing daily logs which get posted to a NOAA Teacher at Sea website. Eric’s final log included the following:

Log 17
NOAA Teacher at Sea: Eric Heltzel
NOAA Ship RONALD H. BROWN
Mission: Stratus 6
Wednesday, October 19, 2005

Personal Log
Sailing on the RONALD H. BROWN as a NOAA Teacher at Sea has been an opportunity to experience scientific research first hand. I have been impressed by the commitment to excellence exhibited by all members of the scientific teams. They have undertaken the design and logistical challenges of the Stratus 6 cruise with great attention to detail, absolute commitment to execution of the plan, and countless hours of effort. Tasks were carried out with a high degree of professionalism and in good humor. The officers and crew of the BROWN were not only generous and considerate, but they were also very competent. People knew their jobs and did them without complaint. There seems to be an enthusiasm for the research that the ship facilitates. Throughout the cruise I felt confident that the ship was in good hands. Going to sea for the first time has been a challenge for me. As with many things that push us outside our comfort zone and away from the familiar, learning is fast paced and intense. This will be my last log from the RONALD H. BROWN. I wish to thank the Teacher at Sea program of NOAA for making this experience possible. Thanks to Captain Tim Wright and the officers and crew of the BROWN for helping this previously landlocked teacher from Wyoming have a great experience. Special thanks to Dr. Bob Weller and the team from Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution for taking me under their wings and answering my numerous questions. Thanks to Peggy Decaria for substituting for me in my classes at Evanston High School. I never would have been able to have this experience if not for the support of Superintendent Dennis Wilson and all of Uinta County School District #1. I’m going back to school with a rich experience to share, new resources to facilitate my teaching, and many new ideas. Thanks to you all.

Last updated: March 4, 2010