Panterra :: MySchool Journal

My name is Kelsey Fonda and I have had the extraordinary chance to depart on two amazing trips through Panterra. I have traveled on both the Gulf Islands and Baja Peninsula trips with the organization. The trips have been a chance of a lifetime and well worth it. I have first hand experienced all sorts of marine life up close which I never would have gotten the chance to in a classroom. Marine biology had always been an interest of mine but after attending the voyages it only increased my desire to learn about the topic. After my first trip with Panterra it inspired me to become a volunteer at the Vancouver Aquarium Marine Science Centre where I continue to work today. I truly believe that through the knowledge I acquired with Panterra, I am now paving my road to fulfilling my calling of becoming a marine biologist.

The people who I got to meet on these incredible trips were incredibly knowledgeable, and I am honored to call them my friends. The crews of the boats were outgoing, entertaining and incredibly hospitable. They definitely made the boat our home away from home! They not only provided us with everything we needed but they taught us amazing things by sharing their own incredible stories of the ocean with us. Lela, the leader of the trip made each minute exciting with her vast bank of knowledge of everything we encountered. We learnt about everything from the fish, the birds, to the people, and even the land.

I was also one of the people on the Sea of Cortez trip to choose to complete a work book for high school credits. My shipmates and I were enthusiastic to get up in the morning so we could work on our workbooks, which surprised even myself since I was so used to associating "workbook" with regurgitating facts from a textbook. When showing the pictures of my trip to friends and family I was shocked by how much I had come to know about all the ecology and biology we had encountered. One particular thing I really loved about the trip was being able to examine the different adaptations that creatures make to their surroundings. Seeing these adaptations first hand really helped me understand the complexity of the world around us. From great food, fantastic facts, friendliness and fun, there was nothing that the crew of Panterra left uncovered!

If I had the chance to go on more trips with Panterra I would, without hesitation, definitely go again and again and again. The amount of knowledge I have gained and the amazing sites I have seen are indescribable. I recommend the trips to anyone who wants to go and have a great experience, with amazing people, while enriching your knowledge at the same time in such a different environment. Panterra truly served to be a experience that I will forever cherish- not only for the memories and friends that I made, but for the knowledge I obtained that will stay with me forever.

How are you doing? It's Jackie Schwandt here from last years Medicine Hat High School trip. I was just looking at the homepage and was thinking about last years trip and thought that I would drop you a line to say hi. I hope that everything is going well for you. I'm doing great. I'll be sad to see our Mexico pictures replaced with this years team though.

I moved to PEI in August and am attending University here. I love it. I'm so happy. Right now I'm getting my science degree and plan on becoming a high school physics teacher. (Maybe one day you can take my class to Mexico).

I just wanted to let you know that your advise of "never walk on eggshells" has helped me a lot in making my decision to move here. Not a lot of people wanted me to do this, but I kept thinking of you and finally said, it's my life and I need to be happy with what I'm doing, and made the decision to come here. Thank you so much for your excellent advice. I've been here 5 months now, and have never for one second regretted my decision.

I guess I just wanted to let you know, that what you are doing matters. Not just teaching kids about marine life but teaching us about life in general.

Thank you so much. I will never forget my time on the boat.

Yours Truly,

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Kind Words from a Parent of a Student at Edwin Parr Composite High

(Nicole on her sailing trip - they absolutely loved it. )

(email) Hi there.

My daughter was one of the lucky students from Edwin Parr (Athabasca) that was one of those diving thugs that were so fondly talked about.

I just wanted to thank you and all your staff for the wonderful care that you provided for the kids. It was a life time opportunity that they had. Nicole came back with a different out look on life and in a much more positive way, and that to me, as a parent means so much.

Again, my heart full thanks and please keep up the good things that you do.

You are all angels. xxoo

Laurie Bissell.

As a prairie youth, there was not much opportunity to pursue my passion in marine biology. however, my participation in a Panterra education program changed all of that. In 1990, at the age of 13, my grade eight junior high teacher got us involved with a Panterra program. It was a life changing experience. It was a fun and inspiring learning setting, and Lela and her crew were inspiring as young women active in marine education.

It was my introduction to sailing at sea, and the skills you need for safety. When I returned, I was prepared with a clear idea of what direction I wanted to head in, but more importantly, I was beginning to gain the skills and experience necessary to work in the field of marine biology.

The influence Panterra has had on my life continues today thanks to Lela and her dedication to helping youth who went through the program. I continued to pursue marine biology, and through Panterra I have gained employment and training both in biology and boating skills that has made my success with current employment in the field of marine mammals possible.

My dreams are coming true, and this is greatly due to Panterra. Through the caring environment and a focus on learning and fun. Panterra really touches youth and brings out the best in them.

Scott Rogers

This letter is being written in support of Panterra Educational and Cultural Training Society.

I have been associated with Panterra for the past 5 years to participate in their Sea of Cortez expedition. We have traveled with Panterra on three separate trips and on each there was a consistent and caring attitude exhibited by the organization. Presently, I am planning a new adventure with them in the Gulf Islands.

Lela Sankeralli, through the Panterra organization has been efficient, thorough and generous in her dealings with our school, each of our groups and each individual in the group. Sharon Neeves has stayed in contact with parents continuously and especially during times when flight connections have been problematic, thus reducing the anxiety of the student travellers and families alike. Lela and Sharon made the trips more than just a business proposition. They cared for us as individuals and exhibited professional, personal, safe and nurturing conduct.

Lela Sankarali and her staff were amazing in the care and encouragement of the students' cognitive development. They were true examples of how educated and literate people continue to learn. With their natural enthusiasm they instilled in students an increased curiosity of their surroundings. Several students expressed desires to continue learning about science and nature. Some have gone on to university and, when they return to visit, they express how crucial the Sea of Cortez voyage was in their decision to pursue the sciences. Some have selected a future in medicine, veterinary medicine and one has expressed interest in a career in environmental law. It is also evident that, under Panterra's tutelage, student enthusiasm for global respect and care for organisms has grown. Our naturalists have always explained how man's global activity has become problematic for sea creatures and how we as individuals can help to care for these incredible creatures. They have also counselled safe and caring scientific attitudes, instilling into the students a respect for the traditions of the scientific community.

Moreover the Panterra staff has a magical way of communicating with and contributing to the development of the youth in general. Their demeanour is friendly and yet there is a discipline present, which allows students to understand that standards are high but we can achieve them with a minimum of stress. In each scientific experience, students are guided into excellence. It is simply and clearly conveyed that in science as in life, we give our best and expect the best.

As a professional, I strive for the best but would joyfully admit that the Panterra staff has made me not only a better naturalist and teacher but also a better person. I have always considered myself to be a positive, enthusiastic person, but as I have observed Lela and her team in action through the past 5 years, I found myself becoming more enthusiastic and have amalgamated some of their exuberance into my personality and especially into my classroom.

Lastly, Lela Sankeralli and Sharon Neeves have always encouraged respect and tolerance for different global cultures especially for the beautiful Mexican people. She always approaches individuals with respect, setting an example for our young students to follow. Students and teachers alike are better because they have experienced what Panterra has to offer.

In conclusion, I strongly support the Panterra Educational and Cultural Training Society. Their commitment to education is outstanding.

Peter Grad - Department Leader - Medicine Hat High School

I am writing this letter to express my support of the Panterra Educational and Cultural Training Society.

I am able to provide feedback from three different perspectives, a youth leader through the Girl Guides of Canada and the Duke of Edinburgh programs, an Executive Director of a non-profit agency that supports children and adults with developmental disabilities and as a parent.

My first introduction to the program came when my oldest daughter participated in the program in 1997 through her Girl Guide group. Upon her return she expressed her enthusiasm and enjoyment with the experience. More importantly from a parent's perspective she received an introduction to marine biology that piqued her interest in science in general that has stayed with her through her high school and college education.

Due to her experience, I planned and participated in the program with ten girls through my Girl Guide/ Duke of Edinburgh group in 2000. The girls worked very hard to raise the funds to participate and again they felt that the hard work was well worth it. The group was very diverse in their intellect and abilities but the program was able to accommodate and be inclusive to all. The staff at Panterra also ensured that their program included all elements/experiences required to accomplish specific criteria within the youth programs. With the girls being from the Prairies, the marine life, the weather and culture was quite different from what they had previously experienced.

The third group was composed of adults with development disabilities and their support staff. I believe this was one of the first experiences for many of the crew to be in contact with this population and the interaction was exceptional. The program accommodated these individuals learning styles by providing concrete learning through enjoyable activities and practical application of the information. Many of these adults continue to talk about this experience as the highlight of their life and some continue to keep in touch with the staff to this day.

KIND WORDS
Sea cucumber found at low tide	Over the years many letters of thanks from parents, teachers and students have been received. As I was going through the 100+ letters on file it made me realize just how much the Panterra staff, teachers and group supervisors have worked together in making a difference in the lives of the students and their families. Recently, I was asked to select six letters from the file and submit them with a grant proposal. These were the letters chosen, and I thought what better way to share some of the special thoughts participants have had on their Panterra trip.
Kind Words from a Student at Meadowridge School My name is Kelsey Fonda and I have had the extraordinary chance to depart on two amazing trips through Panterra. I have traveled on both the Gulf Islands and Baja Peninsula trips with the organization. The trips have been a chance of a lifetime and well worth it. I have first hand experienced all sorts of marine life up close which I never would have gotten the chance to in a classroom. Marine biology had always been an interest of mine but after attending the voyages it only increased my desire to learn about the topic. After my first trip with Panterra it inspired me to become a volunteer at the Vancouver Aquarium Marine Science Centre where I continue to work today. I truly believe that through the knowledge I acquired with Panterra, I am now paving my road to fulfilling my calling of becoming a marine biologist. The people who I got to meet on these incredible trips were incredibly knowledgeable, and I am honored to call them my friends. The crews of the boats were outgoing, entertaining and incredibly hospitable. They definitely made the boat our home away from home! They not only provided us with everything we needed but they taught us amazing things by sharing their own incredible stories of the ocean with us. Lela, the leader of the trip made each minute exciting with her vast bank of knowledge of everything we encountered. We learnt about everything from the fish, the birds, to the people, and even the land. I was also one of the people on the Sea of Cortez trip to choose to complete a work book for high school credits. My shipmates and I were enthusiastic to get up in the morning so we could work on our workbooks, which surprised even myself since I was so used to associating "workbook" with regurgitating facts from a textbook. When showing the pictures of my trip to friends and family I was shocked by how much I had come to know about all the ecology and biology we had encountered. One particular thing I really loved about the trip was being able to examine the different adaptations that creatures make to their surroundings. Seeing these adaptations first hand really helped me understand the complexity of the world around us. From great food, fantastic facts, friendliness and fun, there was nothing that the crew of Panterra left uncovered! If I had the chance to go on more trips with Panterra I would, without hesitation, definitely go again and again and again. The amount of knowledge I have gained and the amazing sites I have seen are indescribable. I recommend the trips to anyone who wants to go and have a great experience, with amazing people, while enriching your knowledge at the same time in such a different environment. Panterra truly served to be a experience that I will forever cherish- not only for the memories and friends that I made, but for the knowledge I obtained that will stay with me forever. (top of page) Kind Words from a Student at Medicine Hat High School Hey Lela!! How are you doing? It's Jackie Schwandt here from last years Medicine Hat High School trip. I was just looking at the homepage and was thinking about last years trip and thought that I would drop you a line to say hi. I hope that everything is going well for you. I'm doing great. I'll be sad to see our Mexico pictures replaced with this years team though. I moved to PEI in August and am attending University here. I love it. I'm so happy. Right now I'm getting my science degree and plan on becoming a high school physics teacher. (Maybe one day you can take my class to Mexico). I just wanted to let you know that your advise of "never walk on eggshells" has helped me a lot in making my decision to move here. Not a lot of people wanted me to do this, but I kept thinking of you and finally said, it's my life and I need to be happy with what I'm doing, and made the decision to come here. Thank you so much for your excellent advice. I've been here 5 months now, and have never for one second regretted my decision. I guess I just wanted to let you know, that what you are doing matters. Not just teaching kids about marine life but teaching us about life in general. Thank you so much. I will never forget my time on the boat. Yours Truly, Jackie (top of page) Kind Words from a Parent of a Student at Edwin Parr Composite High (Nicole on her sailing trip - they absolutely loved it. ) (email) Hi there. My daughter was one of the lucky students from Edwin Parr (Athabasca) that was one of those diving thugs that were so fondly talked about. I just wanted to thank you and all your staff for the wonderful care that you provided for the kids. It was a life time opportunity that they had. Nicole came back with a different out look on life and in a much more positive way, and that to me, as a parent means so much. Again, my heart full thanks and please keep up the good things that you do. You are all angels. xxoo Laurie Bissell. (top of page) Kind Words from a Student of Kenilworth Junior High As a prairie youth, there was not much opportunity to pursue my passion in marine biology. however, my participation in a Panterra education program changed all of that. In 1990, at the age of 13, my grade eight junior high teacher got us involved with a Panterra program. It was a life changing experience. It was a fun and inspiring learning setting, and Lela and her crew were inspiring as young women active in marine education. It was my introduction to sailing at sea, and the skills you need for safety. When I returned, I was prepared with a clear idea of what direction I wanted to head in, but more importantly, I was beginning to gain the skills and experience necessary to work in the field of marine biology. The influence Panterra has had on my life continues today thanks to Lela and her dedication to helping youth who went through the program. I continued to pursue marine biology, and through Panterra I have gained employment and training both in biology and boating skills that has made my success with current employment in the field of marine mammals possible. My dreams are coming true, and this is greatly due to Panterra. Through the caring environment and a focus on learning and fun. Panterra really touches youth and brings out the best in them. Scott Rogers (top of page) Kind Words from a Teacher at Medicine Hat High School This letter is being written in support of Panterra Educational and Cultural Training Society. I have been associated with Panterra for the past 5 years to participate in their Sea of Cortez expedition. We have traveled with Panterra on three separate trips and on each there was a consistent and caring attitude exhibited by the organization. Presently, I am planning a new adventure with them in the Gulf Islands. Lela Sankeralli, through the Panterra organization has been efficient, thorough and generous in her dealings with our school, each of our groups and each individual in the group. Sharon Neeves has stayed in contact with parents continuously and especially during times when flight connections have been problematic, thus reducing the anxiety of the student travellers and families alike. Lela and Sharon made the trips more than just a business proposition. They cared for us as individuals and exhibited professional, personal, safe and nurturing conduct. Lela Sankarali and her staff were amazing in the care and encouragement of the students' cognitive development. They were true examples of how educated and literate people continue to learn. With their natural enthusiasm they instilled in students an increased curiosity of their surroundings. Several students expressed desires to continue learning about science and nature. Some have gone on to university and, when they return to visit, they express how crucial the Sea of Cortez voyage was in their decision to pursue the sciences. Some have selected a future in medicine, veterinary medicine and one has expressed interest in a career in environmental law. It is also evident that, under Panterra's tutelage, student enthusiasm for global respect and care for organisms has grown. Our naturalists have always explained how man's global activity has become problematic for sea creatures and how we as individuals can help to care for these incredible creatures. They have also counselled safe and caring scientific attitudes, instilling into the students a respect for the traditions of the scientific community. Moreover the Panterra staff has a magical way of communicating with and contributing to the development of the youth in general. Their demeanour is friendly and yet there is a discipline present, which allows students to understand that standards are high but we can achieve them with a minimum of stress. In each scientific experience, students are guided into excellence. It is simply and clearly conveyed that in science as in life, we give our best and expect the best. As a professional, I strive for the best but would joyfully admit that the Panterra staff has made me not only a better naturalist and teacher but also a better person. I have always considered myself to be a positive, enthusiastic person, but as I have observed Lela and her team in action through the past 5 years, I found myself becoming more enthusiastic and have amalgamated some of their exuberance into my personality and especially into my classroom. Lastly, Lela Sankeralli and Sharon Neeves have always encouraged respect and tolerance for different global cultures especially for the beautiful Mexican people. She always approaches individuals with respect, setting an example for our young students to follow. Students and teachers alike are better because they have experienced what Panterra has to offer. In conclusion, I strongly support the Panterra Educational and Cultural Training Society. Their commitment to education is outstanding. Peter Grad - Department Leader - Medicine Hat High School (top of page) Kind Words from Didsbury Pathfinders/Padnoma I am writing this letter to express my support of the Panterra Educational and Cultural Training Society. I am able to provide feedback from three different perspectives, a youth leader through the Girl Guides of Canada and the Duke of Edinburgh programs, an Executive Director of a non-profit agency that supports children and adults with developmental disabilities and as a parent. My first introduction to the program came when my oldest daughter participated in the program in 1997 through her Girl Guide group. Upon her return she expressed her enthusiasm and enjoyment with the experience. More importantly from a parent's perspective she received an introduction to marine biology that piqued her interest in science in general that has stayed with her through her high school and college education. Due to her experience, I planned and participated in the program with ten girls through my Girl Guide/ Duke of Edinburgh group in 2000. The girls worked very hard to raise the funds to participate and again they felt that the hard work was well worth it. The group was very diverse in their intellect and abilities but the program was able to accommodate and be inclusive to all. The staff at Panterra also ensured that their program included all elements/experiences required to accomplish specific criteria within the youth programs. With the girls being from the Prairies, the marine life, the weather and culture was quite different from what they had previously experienced. The third group was composed of adults with development disabilities and their support staff. I believe this was one of the first experiences for many of the crew to be in contact with this population and the interaction was exceptional. The program accommodated these individuals learning styles by providing concrete learning through enjoyable activities and practical application of the information. Many of these adults continue to talk about this experience as the highlight of their life and some continue to keep in touch with the staff to this day. Yours Truly, Lori Adamchick - Didsbury
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KIND WORDS