Meet Sam, Our Homeschool Bay Program Lead

Our homeschool bay program is about more than getting out on the water. It is about understanding the environment around us, learning practical skills, and becoming more confident and capable along the way.

Samantha Dupray, known to our students as Sam, leads Way of the Bay, bringing together water safety, paddling, marine science, and outdoor learning at Alamitos Bay.

Experience That Matters on the Water

Sam brings nearly two decades of seasonal lifeguarding experience, including 10 years mentoring junior lifeguards. Her background combines strong water skills with years spent helping children build confidence, learn to follow safety instructions, and become more comfortable in an aquatic environment.

That combination matters to us. Leading a group on the water requires more than being a strong swimmer. It means communicating clearly, recognizing when a child needs encouragement, and knowing when to slow down and revisit a skill.

A Homeschool Mom Who Understands the Students

Sam is also a homeschooling mom of three with a passion for outdoor education. Exploring with her own family is part of her everyday life, whether they are at the beach, on a mountain trail, or heading into the desert in their blue truck. She brings that same curiosity and enthusiasm for being outside to Aqualand.

For our homeschool families, we want this to be a place where questions are welcome, learning is hands-on, and children have time to practice rather than rush through an activity.

Marine Science in a Living Classroom

Marine science is a central part of Way of the Bay. Students explore the bay environment while developing an understanding of marine life, coastal ecosystems, tides, currents, and environmental stewardship. Lessons connect what students are learning with what they can observe around them.

What do we notice along the shoreline? How does the water look different from last week? How can we explore without disturbing the animals and habitats we find?

Those questions give our outdoor time a purpose beyond recreation. We want students to become curious observers who understand that enjoying the bay also comes with a responsibility to care for it.

Practical Skills, Growing Independence

Alongside marine science, students practice kayaking, canoe paddling, stand-up paddleboarding, watercraft handling, and water safety. Shoreline activities, team games, and outdoor exploration round out the program, with land-based learning when water conditions call for it.

Our goal is not simply to keep children busy outside. It is to help them learn to handle equipment, work together, pay attention to their surroundings, and take more responsibility as their skills develop.

With Sam leading the way, we look forward to a school year of new discoveries, growing confidence, and a deeper connection to the bay.