See the Difference


Aboard Roseway, indifference is replaced by inspiration. Apathy is overcome by engagement. Discouragement is replaced by joy. Boredom is replaced by motivation. Doubt is exchanged for confidence.

What they're saying:

You got our kids to do stuff in these last two days we have not been able to get them to do in 3 to 4 years.
– Joan Malerba-Foran, Common Ground High School, Connecticut

My overall experience was amazing. I did a lot of things that I bet most people will never do or see. I loved it, it was kind of life changing for me.
– Ihsan Abdussabur, age 14

Watch how World Ocean School makes a difference:

World Ocean School’s diverse population of students who get full or partial program scholarships are 26% Black (African-American, Haitian, West Indian), 49% Latino (Puerto Rican, Dominican) and 23% Caucasian.

In addition:

  • 74% of our students are from low-income households
  • For 27% of our students, English is a second language
  • 18% of our students struggle with learning disabilities
  • 100% of our students deserve to be inspired, positively motivated, valued, and supported

More of what they're saying:

…at least 19 more students will look at the world a little differently and will never forget sitting on Roseway‘s bowsprit much less hauling a 2,000 pound sail! I’ve never seen them work so hard and smile so much.

-Stan Lorbach, Ivanna Eudora Kean High School, St. Thomas

I want to thank you for letting me be here today on the Roseway. I’m having more fun than I have ever had in my life. On board the Roseway I’ve met new friends and done things I thought I would never do. Being on the Roseway gives me and the students a feeling of community and respect. This is such a wonderful experience.

- Jaleesah, 8th grade student from St. Croix

Our January term course, “Tales of the Sea,” spent ten days aboard Roseway in the Virgin Islands: sixteen students reading, writing, sailing, hiking, and learning. It was a wonderful teaching experience, one of the best I have had, thanks to the incredibly attentive cooperation of the World Ocean School staff.

-Nick Preus, PhD, Associate Professor of English, Luther College

This trip was one of the most amazing experiences I have ever had and I really wasn’t ready to leave.

- Nicholas, middle school student from Kentucky

A busful of incredibly happy, suntanned, exhausted students and teachers just arrived back at Common Ground. It's 100% clear that you just changed a bunch of lives in a big and permanent way -- and that this experience built relationships in a way that is really special and lasting, as well. Thank you so much. You've given our community a huge gift.

– Joel Tolman, Director of Impact and Engagement, Common Ground High School

There is no other class that can be as great as this one was. It really was the best 10 days of my life. 10 days I will never forget.

- Student, Luther College, Iowa

[My son] arrived home safe and sound and a very happy young man. . . . How can I ever thank you for all you have done? He came home and is such a delight you’ve done well. He’s helping with dishes and chores around the house with a smile, I just love it.

-Tina Capo, Parent

I saw students become transformed into positive, goal-oriented individuals by the experience. Unique strengths were revealed, as students learned the power of a group, and teamwork. Dignity, grace and scholarship – that is the Roseway! We’re proud to be a part of it!

- Priscilla, Librarian at John Woodson Junior High School, St. Croix