US EPA research vessel, Lake Guardian
The Center for Great Lakes Literacy and Great Lakes Sea Grant Network invite teachers (working with students in grades 5-12) and informal educators with a Great Lakes focus to apply for a spot on this unique, expenses-paid, educators’ cruise. Applicants must reside in a Great Lakes state. Applications are due February 28, 2020.
 

Join us for a week-long professional learning opportunity, working side-by-side with scientists on the 180-foot research vessel Lake Guardian. Participants board the ship on July 6, 2020 in Milwaukee, WI and return to Milwaukee on July 12, 2020.

  • Work alongside top scientists as we explore the ecology, geology, geography, biogeochemistry, weather, and current issues affecting Lake Michigan. 
  • Learn to collect data and use scientific equipment to study water quality, food web dynamics, microbes, zooplankton, and larval fish.
  • Experience high-quality curricula and resources focusing on Great Lakes literacy.
  • Share this shipboard experience of a lifetime with like-minded educators dedicated to bringing environmental issues that affect the Great Lakes to the forefront of science education.
  • Earn a stipend and 60 contact hours (if interested, two graduate semester hours from Ashland University [$360 tuition] can be purchased by the participant).

Interested? Check out the research vessel,and past blogs.

Meet two of the scientists leading the experience: Paris Collingsworth and Maureen Coleman.

Workshop Details

Registration/Application Deadline: February 28, 2020

Event Dates: July 6 – 12, 2020

Event Location: Lake Michigan (departing from and returning to Milwaukee, WI)

Applicants: Grades 5 – 12 classroom teachers and informal educators, must reside in a Great Lakes state

For More Information: Contact Terri Hallesy (thallesy@illinois.edu) or Joan Cox (jesarey@illinois.edu)

Application Materials

Personal Statement

Letter of Recommendation

Online application

flyer with more workshop info, including trip logistics. Contact Terri Hallesy at thallesy@illinois.edu for details

flyer with more workshop info, including trip logistics. Contact Terri Hallesy at thallesy@illinois.edu for details


Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant is a part of University of Illinois Extension and Purdue Extension.

IISG Instagram

Graduate students: don’t miss your chance to advance your research and expand your professional network! The 2026 Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant Graduate Scholars Program is now open for applications. Whether your work focuses on coastal resiliency, Great Lakes science, water resources, or community engagement, this opportunity offers funding and professional development to support your graduate research. Learn more and apply today — opportunities like this don’t come every year!👉 Read the full details at the link in bio.
✨ Start Your New Year with Great Lakes Learning! ✨Kick off 2026 by exploring the Center for Great Lakes Literacy Resource Library. It’s your one-stop hub for lesson plans, activities, and tools to bring Great Lakes science into your teaching setting.Visit the link in bio to dive in today! #TeachingTuesday#GreatLakes #NewYearNewResources