"Biscayne Explorer" Teacher Workshop Planned

Date: September 26, 2007

Biscayne National Park will be hosting a teacher workshop for its 4th and 5th grade day use education program, Biscayne Explorer, on Monday, October 8, 2007 from 9:30 am – 3:30 pm. Biscayne Explorer, a hands-on, land-based day program, utilizes Biscayne National Park as an outdoor classroom to bring science to life for students and teachers.

The morning activities will include experiencing the Biscayne Explorer program just as the students would. "By having teachers participate in the program they will become familiar with this exciting opportunity that connects students to their natural environment, mimics field scientists’ work and supports curriculum goals." states Ranger Maria Beotegui, the park’s education program coordinator. Teachers will receive the program guide and will learn how to prepare students and chaperones for the field trip. The afternoon session, open to all grade level teachers, begins at 1:45 pm. During this session, participants will learn about the variety of education programs offered by Biscayne National Park, including classroom programs, overnight field trips, electronic field trips and self guided programs. All education programs offered by Biscayne National Park are free of charge, support the classroom curriculum and meet the Florida Sunshine State Academic Standards.

The teacher workshop will be held at Biscayne National Park’s Dante Fascell Visitor Center, located nine miles east of Homestead at 9700 SW 328 Street. Teachers need to pre-register by calling [phone] x. 3037. A light breakfast and lunch will be provided. Participating teachers will also be given a complimentary Biscayne Bay boat tour ticket to encourage them to explore the park on their own at a later date.

For more information on Biscayne National Park's, education programs, click on the "For Teachers" link of this website.

Funding for the Biscayne Explorer program is made possible in part by a grant from the South Florida National Parks Trust through the generous support of the Ocean Fund.