By Madison Maxwell, Girls’ Boat Project Instructor
What were you doing in middle school? I certainly was not holding power tools while wearing safety goggles in a boatshop. But this group was! We started out with a group of middle school girls who were nervous but eager to learn. To begin, we crafted the ship’s articles and chose a group name. The “Sparkly Sea Slugs” made their way down to a pile of boards in the Boatshop. Gesturing, I said, “Here’s your boat!” The plan was to build a Point Hudson Dory—a design created by our Boatshop Manager, Joel—in eight weekly sessions.
We got to work learning the tools and safety precautions of the trade, and started putting the puzzle pieces of a boat together. Some were eager to use all the tools. Some picked their favorite tools that they preferred to work with. But all were involved in creating something out of a few boards of wood.
Throughout the eight weeks, we encountered many pivotal moments, newfound skills, and problem-solving opportunities. One of the most memorable moments was when the bottom board was placed and the students exclaimed, “It looks like a real boat!” Seeing their faces light up at their accomplishment is one of those moments all teachers know and love.
In the last week, the final touches of oar locks and seat tops were placed on the boat. As a team, we carried the dory to the water, gave it a name (Sparkly Sea Slug), and set out on the maiden voyage. Family and friends gathered to witness and cheer on the culmination of this group’s efforts. Two by two, the students all took turns rowing around the beachfront in their little boat. Success! When our celebration was over, the Sparkly Sea Slugs sat together once more and recalled our favorite moments from the experience. Many commented on their favorite tools used. Others said they enjoyed the feeling of using the boat they had worked so hard on. Finally, it was time to depart, and I said goodbye like I say every week: “I’m glad you came. I’m glad you exist.”
It was an honor to see this group grow. I’m hopeful that these newly empowered students will keep trying and succeeding at new, difficult, and rewarding experiences. I’m also incredibly grateful for the community of volunteers and Northwest Maritime staff who came together to make this experience happen. Consider yourselves honorary Sparkly Sea Slugs.
