Educational Impact
Following Florida Sunshine State and Next Gen Science Standards and the scope and sequence of the district/organization, we are able to help improve retention of science content. Working with the classroom teachers, we reinforce science concepts as students discuss marine science, and see live animals while we facilitate lessons.
Currently, we are offering a distance learning option of classes with a marine scientist from our West Palm Beach facility, allowing students to digitally interact with animals as they learn. Teachers are provided with a full year of curriculum to supplement what we teach online in the classroom. At the high school level we primarily focus on Biology and Life Science. At each level, we are seeing huge growth potential. Through the partnerships with the schools, students are connecting science concepts and are able to better understand the content delivered. Additionally, as students learn about the ocean they are also learning to care for the world in their own back yard. Growing in knowledge of conservation and stewardship, are leadership lessons that last a lifetime, and have the potential to impact the reefs around Florida in a positive way.
We currently offer completely virtual learning series, single sessions, virtual field trips, outdoor classrooms, and customizable curriculum plans.
RESEARCH IMPACT
RESEARCH INTERNSHIPS-
Our research internships are available to high school seniors, undergraduate students, and graduate researchers. Currently, The Reef Institute has two research internship options available. Past research projects include the effects of sunscreen on coral reefs and Peanut Island monitoring.
CORAL MONITORING INITIATIVE-
Peanut Island’s artificial reefs have been growing and propagating coral since 2005. The Reef Institute is identifying fish and coral previously unobserved this far north on the Florida Reef Tract.
SPAWNING & SEEDBANKING-
With South Florida’s developmental growth, it has become more important to be create a seed bank of coral that once flourished throughout the Florida Reef Tract. The Reef Institute is part of a consortium to ensure the survival of several coral species.
Restoration Impact
The Reef Institute is at the forefront of restoring the Stony Coral species that have been diminished by the Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease that is rapidly spreading through the Florida Reef Tract. Our research staff is working non-stop as an integral part of The Florida Coral Rescue Project with Florida Department of Environmental Protection and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commision.