Hands-on marine science in action! Students from Benjamin School recently joined REEF for an Ocean Explorers Expedition packed with curiosity, discovery, and saltwater adventure.
The day began at the REEF Ocean Exploration Center, where students learned the fundamentals of REEF Fish ID surveys and practiced identifying common Caribbean reef species. The Ocean Exploration Center is uniquely suited to host school groups — combining interactive exhibits, classroom-style instruction, and nearby access to the coral reef through one of our partners.
After honing their skills on land, students put their new knowledge to the test on a guided snorkel, completing their first fish surveys in the wild. They also explored a dense mangrove ecosystem from the water and got an up-close look at marine biology through a lionfish dissection.
"Watching students go from practicing fish IDs at the Ocean Exploration Center to spotting and recording those same species on a snorkel just a few hours later is exactly what this program is built for," said Rose Kelly, REEF Education Coordinator. "Having a dedicated space like the OEC in the heart of the Florida Keys, lets us pack a remarkable amount of real marine science into a single school day — and send students home as citizen scientists."
These young explorers walked away with a deeper understanding of ocean conservation and the species that call our reefs home.
REEF offers customized expeditions like this for schools and student groups year-round — a meaningful way to bring marine science to life beyond the classroom. Learn more at www.reef.org/explorers/expeditions.