One of the most important trends in education today is an emphasis on "hands-on" experience for students. And it's good to see that one such Gloucester High School program especially seems to be effectively bridging the gap between theory and the real-world economy.

As noted in Patrick Anderson's story in Saturday's Times, students working out of the school's "Clam Shack" in the aquaculture program are working in a joint project with the Salem State College science department to grow clams, maintain tanks — and some of the students even built the classrooms that are being used for the work.

On one important level, the project that began as an alternative-ed project has now been expanded to include traditional programs in science classes as well. That's a significant between students at the school. But on another, even more practical level, the Clam Shack is now turning out dozens of baby clams. And while the grown clams are currently sent back to Salem State, the GHS program has applied to the Mass. Division of Marine Fisheries to be able to return the clams to flats in the Annisquam River. That would be a good sign for a commercial aquaculture operation.

"It is making real-life connections," high school Principal William Goodwin said of the program. "(Students can) read it in a book, but when they see it how it works, that is the connection to real life."

That indeed is what vibrant education is all about. All of those connected with this program deserve a round of congratulations — and best wishes for continued success.