Complementing the reef restoration components of the UAE-UWCK partnership, education is critical to the sustainability of this bold project investing in the future of the Florida Keys. Our goal is that educating children to engage in stewardship and conservation from a young age will change habits and behaviors resulting in long-term success for the community and the inter-dependent ocean environment.
To begin to develop the program that would work best in Monroe County, UWCK conducted a survey of science educators to gauge marine science related interest, hurdles, availability, and programs already in place. UWCK then created the Marine Science Education Grant process, crafted to give educators the flexibility to tailor their students’ experience thus maximizing impact.
UWCK has committed $180,000 over 5 years to support these efforts.
To find out more about UWCK’s broader reef restoration and education initiative, head here. UWCK is excited to be a partner in creating the Next Generation of Reef Stewards for the future of our community.
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Grants should be used to purchase, provide, or facilitate curriculum; materials and supplies; experiences; activities or field trips; or opportunities enhancing marine science education for Monroe County children ages 3-18.
Eligible uses may include transportation, substitute teachers, admission to facilities, curriculum and related materials, consumable supplies, trainings and conferences, equipment, food, student supplies and other directly related program specific expenses incurred to make this enhanced marine science programming possible.
Up to $2,500 per school/organization or $500 per childcare facility per school year.
For information on United Way’s marine science education related activities, contact UWCK Reef Revitalization Project Liaison, Jessica Dockery, at Jessica.Dockery@UWCollierKeys.org.