World Ocean School exists to provide students of all backgrounds with immersive opportunities to learn to care for themselves, their crew, and their ship, becoming vessels of change in the world they inherit. Providing programs aboard the schooner Denis Sullivan for middle school through college aged students, programs focus on studies in marine ecology, maritime history, stewardship, seamanship, ethical decision-making, and community service. The 137-foot Denis Sullivan was launched in 2000 in Milwaukee, WI after an extensive community effort and thousands of volunteer hours. She is a replica of a 19th century Great Lakes schooner and purpose built to serve as a sail training platform.