Sanibel Sea School Blog
Wrapping Up Homeschool at Sea for 2024
As winter fast approaches, we’re taking a moment to celebrate the successful conclusion of Homeschool at Sea 2024! This unique program connects homeschool families with the wonders of marine science, fostering a love for the ocean while delivering hands-on, experiential learning. Running annually from September through November, these sessions combine classroom-style education with immersive field experiences in and around Sanibel Island.
Students explored diverse habitats this year, from Gulf beaches and mangrove forests to SCCF preserves. The curriculum ranged from predator-prey interactions and invertebrates to water quality and climate change! Every unique topic introduced students to key scientific concepts supported by local marine examples. We had drop-off courses for ages 4 to 17 and options to learn together as a family. Our rotating schedule of two classes per day for each age group offered flexibility for busy homeschool families, ensuring accessibility for everyone.
Highlights from Our Marine Science Educators
“Teaching homeschool this season has been an absolute pleasure. It was so much fun to teach students from all over the country. While our homeschool community is mostly local, we had families from California and Alaska join in on the fun. The freedom of homeschooling allows families to travel while learning; we’re grateful to be a part of their educational journey.” – Izzy
“The most impactful moments were those of discovery. We found Gopher Tortoise burrows and caught blue crabs with nets. Students were thrilled to safely and respectfully interact with wildlife. Their eyes lit up with excitement with each immersive moment.” – Austin
“I enjoyed teaching the Family Day courses, which are unique to the Homeschool at Sea program and a great opportunity to engage multiple generations in hands-on learning. Watching parents and grandparents jumping in the water and creating art projects alongside their kids was so much fun. What a perfect reminder to get outside and explore no matter what age you are!” – Jordyn
“My favorite part of the homeschool season was building upon curriculum week to week. We had a lot of repeat students, and I feel fortunate to have watched them grow over these last three months! Not only did they spark a love for the ocean, but they also created life-long friendships and connections with each other.” – Annie
Accessibility Through Subsidized Pricing
We understand the financial considerations of homeschooling, and this year, we were able to offer classes at a reduced rate. This pricing is made possible by our scholarship fund, which allows us to subsidize costs while maintaining the high standards of our programs. If financial assistance would make participation easier for your family, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We are committed to ensuring no student misses out on the magic of marine science.
In addition to our scholarship fund, we’re thrilled to announce that Sanibel Sea School is now officially approved by Step Up For Students Scholarships Florida! This exciting development opens up new opportunities for Florida families to access financial assistance for their children’s ocean education. Sanibel Sea School services are approved for the FES – UA and PEP scholarships. Current service offerings include homeschool, after-school, and day courses.
If you share our passion for accessible education and environmental stewardship, please consider donating to our scholarship fund to help make next year’s program even more impactful for homeschool families. Every contribution supports a future ocean steward and strengthens our community’s commitment to conservation.
Continue learning with us:
While Homeschool at Sea courses will not return until September 2025, we have plenty of other opportunities to continue exploring the ocean. Check out our similar Day Course offerings here, or book a group field trip for your homeschool community.
Homeschool at Sea 2025 will be announced in late summer, with sign-ups opening in August. Stay tuned for announcements, and get ready for another season of adventure and ocean discovery!