We want to instill within our students the knowledge, skills and attitudes to make environmentally and socially responsible decisions so they can create sustainable solutions for the future.
In this course, students focus on the local marine and coastal environment — the “nature of GFA — by exploring and learning about each of the three ecosystems
right in our backyard: the Sound, beach, and marsh. This introduces many topics (physical, chemical, and biological) that allow students to explore in more detail as the semester progresses, and prepares them for regular monthly surveys and additional fieldwork.
In this course, students will take a more global focus on the oceans. They will engage in fieldwork and take time to investigate global ocean ecosystems and issues with a focus on ways in which human activities influence the oceans. The units in this course may include oyster reefs, coral reefs, noise pollution, and marine debris, among other topics.
An in-depth exploration of what it means to live well in a place. Through case studies, primary literature, and other readings, students study sustainability theory, environmental ethics, and environmental justice. The course includes an off-campus immersion experience that will help class become a collaborative cohort of leaders in sustainability.
For students who are passionate about study of the environment and sustainability issues, GFA offers an interdisciplinary, project-focused program designed to empower students to explore their passions and become stewards of their world.
By Anna Moss '24
Hi, I am Anna, a sophomore at GFA, currently in Dr. Heenehan’s human ecology and sustainability inquiry. A part of this inquiry’s course is choosing a project to focus on during the spring semester. For my project, I decided to base my project on the pollinator pathway and get GFA on the pollinator pathway map!
.jpg)
By Dr. Heather Heenehan (US Faculty, Sustainability Coordinator)
Dr. Heather Heenehan shares stories about the garden and more about how the garden and the harvest have made a difference in the community this summer.
By Hannah Shairer '22
Shairer's Human Ecology and Sustainability project analyzes Water Sustainability and conservation at GFA, encouraging members of our community to think about where their water comes from and how they can conserve water in their daily lives.
By the Upper School Human Ecology and Sustainability Inquiry Class with Dr. Heather Heenehan
A description of student projects from the Inaugural 2021 Human Ecology and Sustainability Inquiry class.