Welcome to Marine Life Learning

Melissa Torres brings more than 20 years of marine science experience and youth outdoor education to her role as Director of Marine Science. A graduate of  Cal Poly Humboldt, she works as a Senior Aquarist and Dive Safety Officer at Birch Aquarium in La Jolla. Her role in the Sunflower Sea Star Conservation project, as part of the collaborative sunflower sea star recovery effort through Birch Aquarium, Aquarium of the Pacific, California Academy of Sciences, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, and the Sunflower Star Laboratory, was featured by National Geographic in December 2024. Her work reflects  her commitment to hands-on science, and inspiring students to find ways to appreciate, enjoy, and protect the marine world.

Laura Bookser brings a diverse 20+ years of experience in K–12 education to her role as Director of Learning and Instruction. She holds a Master of Education in Learning and Instruction from Northeastern University and has experience in curriculum development, instructional support, administration, and academic enrichment. She loves creating hands-on learning experiences that spark curiosity, encourage exploration, and help students build meaningful connections with the natural world. Using student-led inquiry, her commitment is to support students by allowing them to feel empowered, not only to explore our planet, but to care for it, to protect it, and to create real solutions to environmental problems.