Education

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These programs, funded entirely by non-profits such as the Alliance for Florida’s National Parks, provide invaluable opportunities for students to engage with the environment and history, as there is no government funding allocated for these initiatives. Below is a brief overview of the educational programs available in each park:

Everglades National Park
Everglades National Park’s education programs reach over 60,000 students annually, offering a curriculum that evolves with the students from elementary through high school. Students can engage in activities such as wading through sawgrass prairies, exploring cypress domes, and visiting the historic Nike Missile Base. Programs cover a wide range of topics, including ecosystems, fire adaptations, food webs, water conservation, and cultural history. These experiences foster a deep understanding of environmental stewardship and the importance of conservation.

Big Cypress National Preserve
Big Cypress National Preserve’s “Swamp Water and Me Program” (S.W.A.M.P.) is a cornerstone of environmental education in Collier County, providing hands-on experiences to over 2,300 sixth-grade students each year. Embedded into the school curriculum, this program allows students to explore the preserve’s diverse habitats, including cypress domes, pinelands, and sawgrass prairies. Students conduct scientific experiments and interact directly with nature, developing a profound connection to the environment and a sense of responsibility for its preservation.

Biscayne National Park
Biscayne National Park offers a variety of educational programs that bring students closer to the marine environments of South Florida. The park’s boat-based learning programs allow students to explore Biscayne Bay’s diverse ecosystems, including coral reefs and mangrove forests. Through hands-on activities like seagrass seining and plankton labs, students learn about marine biology, conservation, and the importance of ethical fishing practices. The park also offers overnight expeditions for high school students, providing an immersive experience in maritime ecosystems.

Dry Tortugas National Park
Dry Tortugas National Park’s education programs offer students the chance to explore one of the world’s most unique marine environments and historical sites. Middle school students can investigate the park’s coral reefs and the historic Fort Jefferson, learning about the significance of preserving such sites. High school programs challenge students to reflect on human impact, global value, and the differences between National Parks and National Monuments. Virtual programming is also available, allowing students from all over to engage with the park’s resources and educational content.

Visit each park’s page to see what youth education projects are currently underway at Big Cypress National Preserve, Biscayne National Park, Dry Tortugas National Park, and Everglades National Park.