Choices Academy Students trade in desks for docks

VIENNA, Md. — Students at Choices Academy closed their books and opened their tackle boxes as they traded desks for docks.

Choices Academy Principal Matt Brady said the experience teaches more than fishing.

“It’s more than fishing,” Brady said. “The kids are working together. They’re problem-solving. We’re getting our lines tangled. We’re not arguing about it. We’re just working together.”

Students at Choices Academy spent the afternoon casting lines instead of taking notes.

Ninth-grader Gracelyn Powell said she enjoyed the experience and the scenery. “I think it’s pretty cool,” Powell said. “Especially the view. It’s not all that to some people, but I think it’s really nice.”

For others, the fish were not cooperating.

Ninth-grader Tyshay Pitts described the trip as disappointing. “The fish ate the worm but didn’t let me get it,” Pitts said. “One day I’ll catch a fish. Well, no, I don’t ever want to fish again.”

Brady said time outside the classroom provides valuable lessons for students.“Being patient, persevering, succeeding and not getting frustrated when the fish falls off right in front of you,” Brady said. “It’s just a really nice opportunity for our students.”

The fishing trip also gave students a chance to help the environment.

“The species of catfish that we’re catching is very invasive to this area,” Brady said. “The more we can catch, the better. We’re going to take them tomorrow, cook them up and fry them for the students.”

Reeling in catfish did not come without challenges.

“I will not touch it. Nope,” Powell said. “I touched a worm twice. I said, ‘No thank you.’”

Eighth-grader Ja’Nyh Johnson agreed. “No, I’m sorry to tell you that, but no, I can’t do that,” Johnson said.

For Brady, the lessons students learned made the trip worthwhile.

“Just being in the environment and taking in the sun and the nice day,” Brady said.