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K-12 Educators

Planting oysters grown on floats at York River State Park
Welcome to our new site developed specifically for educators working at the K-12 grade levels! The National Estuarine Research Reserve System (NERRS) comprises 27 reserves, and is a great resource for all things related to estuarine ecology. The network represents different biogeographic regions of the United States that are protected for long-term research, water-quality monitoring, education and coastal stewardship. We invite you to learn more about this network, the dynamic on-site educational programs offered by each site, and its efforts to increase estuarine literacy.

Check the resources we offer for education and let us know how we can help you. We are in the process of developing this website and welcome all your suggestions!

Distance Learning Programs: Check out these great links! Join us for the EstuaryLive program in September 2006, and have your students ask questions through the internet! Use the Estuaries Tutorial to help you teach about estuaries!

Curriculum Materials: This is a collection of curricula, lesson plans, activities and power point presentations that have been developed by some of the National Estuarine Research Reserves. These materials can help you introduce your students to specific estuarine topics and environments.

NEW! Searchable Education Calendar of Events: The new education calendar allows readers to search for estuarine educational activities across the United State by month, by reserve location, or by activity type. Estuarine educational activities featured in the new calendar include:

  • Professional teacher training programs - Professional teacher training programs are workshops designed to provide K-12 educators with opportunities to deepen content knowledge in estuarine ecology and related topics.
  • K-12 student programs - K-12 student programs are activities in or near estuaries that provide students fun and experiential opportunities to learn about those places where the rivers meet the seas.
  • Community outreach and educational programs - Community outreach and education programs provide general audiences, both children and adults, the chance to encounter our nation's estuaries up close, making learning about estuaries fun and exciting.
  • Post secondary education programs - Post secondary educational programs are estuarine events that provide advance students hands-on experience and unique learning opportunities.

Please contact us if you would like to receive updates on upcoming professional development activities, the EstuaryLive program, exciting new educational opportunities offered by the National Estuarine Research Reserve System, and more.

To learn more about a specific reserve's educational program, visit the reserves that have an education website.