Program Overview

Blue Scholars Initiative offers on the water, virtual and in school learning opportunities of its Next Generation Sunshine State Standards aligned marine science curriculum to 4th grade classes throughout Miami-Dade County. Led by a team of instructors, each program covers a specific topic, promotes interactive discussions, and highlights key takeaways. Educators of ALL grades are invited to learn more below and subscribe to receive news and updates about this and future learning opportunities through the Blue Scholars program. Whether an on the water experience, virtual lesson in the classroom or in-person engagement, we are committed through marine science education to connect all students to Biscayne Bay so they too, can become Blue Scholars.

Complete a REQUEST today for more information and to schedule a program for your 4th grade class.

Through the generous support of our donors, we’re excited to offer this fun learning opportunity at no cost. Our goal is to inspire all South Florida youth to be stewards of the environment, therefore, we invite participants to perform a Community Service Project (CSP) in recognition of this free opportunity to further instill behaviors that benefit the community. Consider a letter writing assignment as one class completed in September 2020 in support of Biscayne Bay. Please note, a CSP is only encouraged and not required to schedule a program at this time.

Areas of Focus

I. Marine Biology

• Learn about the Food Web, including photosynthesis and the transfer of energy from plants to animals.

• Investigate Water Quality and the specific parameters that sustain life in the bay.

II. Marine Ecology

Dive deep into Biscayne Bay’s three main habitats:

• Mangroves

• Seagrasses

• Coral Reefs

Each supporting and nurturing a variety of wildlife both above and below the surface.

III. Watershed Concepts

• Reveal the path of trash through the watershed, Marine Debris and the devastating impact of plastic pollution in the ocean.

• Uncover the sources of Harmful Algal Blooms to better understand how and why they occur.