The Florida Keys came alive with excitement and a shared love for the ocean as Coral Restoration Foundation™ (CRF™) and the Guy Harvey Foundation (GHF) hosted their first joint educator retreat.
Over two days, 113 teachers from Florida and Georgia immersed themselves in marine science, hands-on labs, and coral reef exploration designed to inspire future ocean advocates in their classrooms.
Each group spent one day with the Guy Harvey Foundation, learning about shark and lionfish ecology at Reef Environmental Education Foundation (REEF), and one day with CRF™, where they explored how science can be transformed into engaging, standards-based education.
Saturday’s sessions focused on K–5 teachers, while Sunday welcomed 6–12 educators, ensuring every activity matched each group’s teaching level and classroom goals.
See It, Love It, Teach It
During their day with CRF™, educators experienced how classroom learning connects to real-world conservation.
Half of the day was spent snorkeling at Carysfort Nursery, where teachers learned about coral restoration in action. For many, it was their first time seeing restoration work up close, sparking new ideas for bringing ocean science to their students. Teachers who did not snorkel joined an afternoon program at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, where they learned about conservation initiatives and explored educational programs.
In the afternoon, participants returned to the Exploration Center for two inquiry-based activities that combined science with creativity:
- Water Quality Lab-
Teachers collected and analyzed water samples from the marina using pH strips, hydrometers, and microscopes. They examined how factors like pollution and runoff affect coral health and discussed ways to introduce water quality studies into their classrooms. - Maritime Slime Workshop-
Participants mixed and tested “marine slime” recipes to understand how mucus supports coral and fish health. This tactile activity encouraged teachers to explore new ways to teach adaptation and marine biology through hands-on learning.
Both groups completed the same CRF™ activities, but each was adapted to fit their curriculum needs.
- K–5 teachers explored storytelling, predator-prey relationships, and sensory learning.
- 6–12 teachers focused on experimental design, data collection, and applying research methods to real-world science.
Every educator left with practical tools, lesson ideas, and a renewed passion for teaching ocean science as a living, dynamic subject.
Investing in the Future
This retreat was made possible by the collaboration of GHF, REEF, and John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, whose support and expertise helped create a transformative learning experience.
It marked the beginning of an exciting collaboration that bridges science, conservation, and education. We look forward to seeing ocean-inspired lessons fill classrooms and students discovering their connection to the sea.
If you are an educator or administrator interested in bringing ocean science into your curriculum, explore our free, standards-aligned programs on our Education Page.
Our Programs Include
- Free downloadable classroom curriculum
- In-class presentations and workshops
- Custom educator training
- Field trips to our Exploration Center
- Captain Coral shows
- Snorkel excursions
Through education, creativity, and exploration, we are nurturing the next generation of ocean stewards.
Written by: Melissa Giresi, Education Outreach Coordinator
