On a windswept stretch of beach along Tangier Island, a group of college students spent their weekend doing work that was as gritty as it was meaningful — hauling debris, asking questions, and leaving behind more than just a cleaner shoreline.
At the same time, miles away in Richmond, a group of students from Tangier Combined School stood at podiums, debating legislation and guiding a bill through a simulated General Assembly.
Together, the two experiences paint a picture of students stepping beyond the classroom and into real-world challenges — through service, leadership, and civic engagement.
“We had the ENORMOUS Honor of hosting students and faculty of the James Madison University Honors Program this weekend!” said Barb Baechtel, co-owner of the Brigadune Inn. “We were, as usual, so impressed with these young people.”
The visiting group from the James Madison University Honors Program quickly earned admiration not just for their work ethic, but for their character.
“Every year, we’ve found these students to be polite and kind, without being stiff, very inquisitive and bright – asking intelligent, thoughtful questions and just being all-around great people,” Baechtel said. “They were packed in like sardines and never uttered one peep of complaint.”
Though the weekend included time at the island’s museum and moments around a sunset firepit, the students devoted much of Saturday to a pressing environmental issue. Tangier Island, situated in the Chesapeake Bay, often becomes a landing point for drifting debris.
“Tangier, unfortunately, acts as a filter for a lot of the trash that pollutes the Bay,” Baechtel said.
What followed was a sweeping cleanup effort that left a visible impact.
“These amazing people hauled up THREE huge truckloads of debris from the beach!!” she said. “We are so appreciative of this herculean effort!”
The effort resonated deeply with the small island community.
“Thank you, JMUHP!! We can’t wait to see you back next year!” Baechtel added.
While one group tackled environmental challenges, students connected to Tangier Combined School were gaining firsthand experience in how laws are made.
“I’ve had a wonderful three days chaperoning the Model General Assembly in Richmond,” said teacher Duane Crockett. “Our bill passed both the House and Senate.”
Students assumed key leadership roles in the process, navigating committee hearings and floor debate.
“This year’s House patron was Lola Parks and the Senate patron was Emilee Parks,” Crockett said. “Both had to present their bills in committee and the Floor. Both did a great job!”
Behind the scenes, the legislative process depended on careful organization.
“Also, Ava Marshall served as Committee Clerk, where she had to take attendance, file every bill, write every amendment, and keep record of all discussed in committee,” Crockett said.
The delegation included Lilly Eskridge, Tyler Giles, Wesley Dean Tyler, Emilee Parks, Lola Parks, Ava Marshall, and Peyton Pruitt — each contributing to the group’s success.
One absence was felt among the team.
“Lacee Evans was supposed to be Senate Bill Patron, but wasn’t able to attend due to flu. We missed you Lacee!” Crockett said.
From clearing shorelines to crafting legislation, the students’ efforts reflect a broader lesson — learning takes many forms, and sometimes the most lasting lessons happen far from a desk.
Tangier Island, Virginia 