Ride and Learn Series

Description

The Apex Ride and Learn Series is an exciting new youth education initiative developed by Apex Youth Connection and generously funded by the Bonnell Cove Foundation. This innovative program combines road cycling safety training with engaging, place-based lessons about outdoor environments and ecosystems.

This year’s educational focus is Marine Biology and Ocean Conservation. Each week, participants will learn from a Marine Science graduate of the University of New England through hands-on, interactive lessons. A list of weekly lesson topics can be found below.

• Introduction to the Intertidal Zones
• Tide pooling and Organism Identification
• Seaweed and Marine Algae
• Invasive, Native, and Endangered species
• Tides and Currents
• Sand Dunes and Bird Habitat
• Ocean Debris, Litter, and Ghost Fishing Equipment

Age Range

This program is available to youth 10 through 18 years of age and suitable for all riding abilities. 10 spots are available for Summer 2025.

Daily Schedule

8:45 AM - 9:00 AM  - Arrival

9:00 AM - 10:00 AM - Road Ride to the Beach

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM - Ocean Lesson

11:00 AM - 12:00 PM - Free Time & Snack

12:00 PM - 1:00 PM - Return Ride to Apex

Dates and Time

The course runs each Monday  for 7 weeks total from 9am to 1pm. Each session consists of a scenic road ride to Biddeford Beaches, a one hour hands on Marine Science lesson, and an hour of free time at the beach with snacks included.

Poor Weather Reschedule Date

• August 18th

Locations

• Middle Beach
• Fortunes Rock
• Biddeford Pool

Equipment Needs

Apex provides road-ready bikes for all youth participants, so bringing your own bike is not required. However, students are welcome to use their personal bikes if they prefer. Please note that all personal bikes must pass a safety inspection by an Apex mechanic before they can be used in the program. Helmets are also provided for students free of charge.

Each student will be provided with a healthy snack during beach time. However, students are encouraged to bring additional food if they think they’ll need more than a light snack to stay energized.

What to Bring Each Day

• Close Toed Shoes Suitable for Bike Riding
• Lots of Water
• Sunscreen
• Bathing Suit (optional, but we recommend students come prepared with their suit worn under their standard clothes if they would like to swim)
• Towel
• Light Bag or String Bag (should be large enough to carry personal belongings, but not so large that it affects riding)
• Sun Glasses
• Snacks and Food (optional)

Adult Mentor Information

Kiara De Los Santos

Kiara De Los Santos is a graduate of the University of New England with a degree in Marine Affairs and a passionate environmental activist. She has organized and led large-scale beach cleanups throughout southern Maine and across the U.S., with a strong focus on removing ghost fishing gear and reducing marine litter to protect local wildlife. As Apex’s Lead Marine Educator, Kiara will be guiding each session in the Ride and Learn Series, sharing her knowledge and enthusiasm for ocean conservation.

Fabian Cruz-Thompson

Fabian Cruz-Thompson is an accomplished cyclist and bike mechanic who discovered his love for biking at the age of 14. Now serving as Apex’s Lead Bike Mechanic and Youth Mentor, Fabian supports young riders with bike repairs, maintenance, and road safety skills. As the Ride Leader for the Apex Ride and Learn Series, he brings expertise, energy, and mentorship to every ride.

Notes for Parents

Each ride at apex includes a minimum of one adult mentor who is CPR and First Aid trained, 2 adult Ride Leaders to manage youth riders, and a kit with comprehensive first aid equipment.

In-Person Instruction

Cost - Free