Exploring Mote Marine’s Education Programs: Inspiring Future Marine Scientists

By Hunter Hageman | April 2025

Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium has long been a leader in marine science research, conservation, and education. With a mission to educate learners “Pre-K through gray,” Mote provides innovative, hands-on experiences that immerse participants in marine science, conservation, and cutting-edge research. Through an array of programs, including virtual learning, school field trips, community engagement events, and immersive summer camps, Mote’s education department strives to inspire curiosity and environmental stewardship in learners of all ages.

A Mission to Educate and Engage

The core mission of Mote’s education department is to make marine science accessible and engaging for all. Dr. Kristen Ranges, Mote SEA (Science Education Aquarium) Education Manager, explains, “Our goal is to make marine science and conservation accessible to everyone, regardless of age, background, or scientific literacy. We strive to engage people in meaningful ways by offering interactive programs and initiatives that not only educate but also encourage active participation, helping them understand their role in marine conservation efforts.”

To achieve this, Mote has developed multiple mechanisms for delivering educational content, including in-person, virtual, and community-based learning experiences. The education team is dedicated to ensuring that students not only learn about marine science but also actively engage with it through real-world applications.

Innovative Programs for All Ages

Mote’s education initiatives extend far beyond traditional classroom settings. Virtual aquarium tours provide interactive experiences for those unable to visit in person, offering a unique way to explore marine life from anywhere. School field trips allow students to participate in hands-on experiences that complement classroom science lessons, helping them develop a deeper understanding of marine ecosystems.

Homeschool programs offer tailored curriculum-based sessions for homeschooling families, ensuring that students receive high-quality marine science education. Community programs, such as Breakfast with the Sharks, provide opportunities for the public to learn about shark biology while enjoying a meal, fostering a deeper appreciation for marine conservation. Additionally, Mote’s summer camps engage students in STEM activities and field experiences, making marine science exciting and accessible for young learners.

Dr. Ranges highlights the value of these programs, stating, “We really have a lot of ways of reaching people that have all different interests and all different accessibility options.”

The Impact of Mote’s Education Programs

Mote’s collaborations with Sarasota County Schools have played a crucial role in expanding marine science education. According to Cheri Dame, Elementary Science Program Specialist for Sarasota County Schools, “Mote has always been an integral member of our education community, offering great experiences for our students. With the new facility, the ability to reach more students is going to increase.”

Middle and high school students also benefit significantly from Mote’s programs. Laura Lundberg, Middle School Science Program Specialist, explains, “Our students show interest in marine science through partnerships with researchers. The ability to translate their field experiences into real-world applications at Mote is invaluable.”

Sarah Burkett, High School Science Program Specialist, adds, “Our high school students work directly with Mote researchers, utilizing labs to conduct research projects. We are excited about the expansion at Mote SEA to further these opportunities.”

Mote SEA: The Future of STEM Education

One of the most exciting developments in Mote’s education initiatives is the upcoming Mote SEA facility. The new state-of-the-art science education aquarium and learning center will house three STEM teaching labs designed to provide students with immersive, hands-on learning experiences. Dr. Ranges explains, “The teaching labs will be specifically constructed, furnished, and supplied with everything students need for innovative experiences. Programming will focus on STEM through the lens of marine science and conservation.”

In preparation for Mote SEA’s opening, Ranges and her team have conducted extensive research to assess the needs of local educators. “After meeting with principals and teachers from Sarasota and Manatee counties, we identified a strong need for more resources to teach the nature of science, including the scientific process, hypothesis formation, experiment design, and data analysis. Our programs will address these needs by integrating real-world research data into hands-on learning experiences.”

The facility will also offer a marine technology space where students can engage in hands-on engineering experiences, such as programming remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), learning about water quality testing, and tagging fish for research purposes. These experiences will not only reinforce STEM learning but also introduce students to real-world applications of marine science and technology.

Summer Camps: Hands-On Learning in Action

Mote’s summer camps have long been a key component of its education programs, offering students immersive experiences in marine science. With the introduction of Mote SEA, the camp offerings will expand into two unique formats tailored to different aspects of marine education. Adventure Camp, based at City Island, will provide students with an interactive outdoor experience that includes kayaking, dip netting, and marine mammal rescue simulations. These hands-on opportunities will allow campers to engage directly with marine environments and develop a deeper appreciation for conservation efforts.

Meanwhile, STEM Camp at Mote SEA will emphasize a more structured, laboratory-based approach to marine science education. Participants will conduct experiments, explore ocean technology, and engage in conservation research projects that mirror real-world scientific practices. By offering these two distinct experiences, Mote ensures that students receive a comprehensive education that integrates both fieldwork and scientific inquiry, fostering a well-rounded understanding of marine ecosystems.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Mote Education

With the anticipated opening of Mote SEA, the education team continues to refine and expand its programs. “We are still offering education at our current location (on City Island) while preparing for the new facility (in Nathan Benderson Park). Our goal is to create distinct identities for each site, ensuring diverse and engaging experiences,” Dr. Ranges explains.

For Sarasota County Schools, the future collaboration with Mote looks bright. “The key is ensuring that these experiences are accessible to all students,” says Cheri Dame. “Ideally, every Sarasota County student will have the opportunity to engage with Mote’s programs in some capacity.”

Mote’s dedication to education extends beyond student engagement. The institution also supports educators through professional development opportunities, helping teachers integrate marine science into their curriculum. “Mote has always been a great partner in offering teacher training and professional learning experiences,” says Sarah Burkett. “Their willingness to work with educators ensures that science instruction remains relevant and impactful.”

Inspiring the Next Generation of Marine Scientists

Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium continues to be a trailblazer in marine science education. Through its diverse programs, partnerships with local schools, and the upcoming Mote SEA facility, Mote is preparing the next generation of scientists, conservationists, and environmental stewards. By providing students with hands-on, real-world learning experiences, Mote is not only fostering a love of marine science but also inspiring future careers in STEM fields.

With an unwavering commitment to education and innovation, Mote ensures that science isn’t just learned—it’s experienced. Whether diving into hands-on research, engaging in conservation projects, or exploring STEM through marine science, students gain the skills and inspiration to navigate their own scientific journeys. Mote’s continued dedication to education programs will keep making waves, ensuring that marine science remains accessible, engaging, and inspiring for generations to come.