COA Goes Back to School

This spring COA was inspired by the ocean-friendly message in Joel Harper’s innovative children’s book, Sea Change. The story has no written words, only creative imagery. Therefore, children become story-tellers as they are presented with new images at the turn of every page.

COA partnered with Joel Harper and Tom Stein and thanks to their generous friends and supporters and Mr. Stein's company, Edrington, created an educational pilot program for schools in Long Branch and Asbury Park. Amanda Wheeler, Volunteer & Education Coordinator for COA, tailored a presentation for over 600 students enrolled in grades K-3.

 As a retired teacher, Ms. Wheeler donned her creative education cap to illustrate to the students the many ways to make a difference at the Jersey Shore and around the world. The 3rd graders at Anastasia School in Long Branch became Sea Change ambassadors as they shared what they learned with their entire school. Students created posters to remind their peers how dangerous litter is to the quality of life on the beach and in our oceans. After the presentations, COA received hand-illustrated “Thank You” letters from each 3rd grader confirming that the message of Sea Change resonated with each child in a profound way.

COA sends out cool, clean waves of thanks to the following for making this pilot program a huge success:

Joel Harper and His Friends

Tom Stein

Catrambone School, Long Branch


Barack Obama Elementary School, Asbury Park

Anastasia School, Long Branch


Gregory School, Long Branch