SCCF’s Sanibel Sea School continues to engage The Sanibel School’s middle school students through hands-on marine science and environmental education. These collaborative programs support classroom learning while connecting students directly to the coastal ecosystems that shape life on Sanibel and Captiva.

Throughout the school year, grades 6-8 participate in interactive labs, field experiences, and inquiry-based activities led by Marine Science Educator Izzy Lutz.

In December, seventh graders gained first-hand experience in comparative anatomy through a shark dissection, and eighth-grade students focused on environmental science and data collection in a water-quality lab.

“They tested local water samples and examined how physical, chemical, and biological factors influence ecosystem health,” said Lutz. “These lab-based experiences emphasize real-world applications of science and encourage students to think critically about human impacts on coastal and marine environments.”

On Jan. 15, sixth and seventh-grade students explored SCCF’s Pick Preserve, which is located across the street from the school. Students learned more about the impact development has on our ecosystems, specifically the impact of flooding from building on undeveloped land in Florida. Students conducted an experiment demonstrating how subsidence is increasing the flood risk on Florida homes and businesses using saturated sponges, sand, and weights.

Visiting the Pick Preserve’s protected interior freshwater habitats and upland hardwood hammock gives the students the opportunity to experience conservation in action beyond the classroom.

Later in April, sixth graders will focus on understanding how scientists organize and study living organisms through a classification lab, and seventh graders will explore microscopic life during a plankton lab.

In addition to individual labs and field trips, sixth-grade students participate in a year-long Mangrove Research and Restoration Project led by Richard Finkel, SCCF Environmental Educator. Students design research projects to determine optimal growth mediums for mangrove propagules, care for the plants throughout the school year, and analyze their results through scientific presentations.

The project will culminate on May 1, with a mangrove planting event at a local restoration site with SCCF.

“This is the fifth year we’ve done the project with sixth graders. Students gain practical experience with scientific research and presentations,” shared Finkel. “It’s a great way to connect Sanibel students to SCCF’s mission.”

Michele Mitnitsky, Middle School Science Teacher, emphasized the value of these partnerships, noting, “Having Sanibel Sea School and SCCF involved gives our students the opportunity to learn science in a way that feels real, relevant, and exciting. They love getting outside and learning through hands-on activities. We’re thrilled to continue working together to inspire future scientists and environmental stewards.”

Through these programs, Sanibel Sea School and SCCF are fostering curiosity, building scientific skills, and inspiring a lifelong connection to nature among Sanibel School students.