K-12 Programs
Placed-based science education
At Archbold, students learn science grounded in our 80+ years of place-based ecological research. Lessons take place in nature's classroom, a preserve with nearly 4,000 acres of one of the countries most endangered habitats, the Florida scrub.
The scrub and sandhill habitats on the Lake Wales Ridge are the most ancient intact ecosystems in peninsular Florida, dating back over one millions years. In the process of exploring this natural wonderland, students also develop a sense of place, environmental identity, and connection to nature.
The Elementary Program
Field trips and classroom activities
Students learning about Earthstars. Photo: David Sherer
The Elementary School Program is a field trip program with accompanying Science in the Scrub pre-visit lessons for the classroom. The 2 ½ hour science field trip includes: a guided nature tour, animal tracking, meeting a live snake, visiting a weather station, and exploring the exhibits in our Learning Center. Free for all public schools in Florida. Program is aligned with The Next Generation Sunshine State Standards for 3rd-5th grade.
Dustin Angell introducing Pinkie, the corn snake, to students. Photo credit: Carol Delynko
Middle & High School
Field trips for our older students include a guided nature tour and discussion of Florida scrub ecology and conservation. The program can be customized to include a variety of topics including citizen science, careers in science, wildlife corridors, and more by teacher request. Free for all public schools in Florida.
Bring Archbold to Your Classroom
Virtually or in-person
If you are unable to bring your class to Archbold, we will come to you - in person or virtually! Programs are customizable, with common elements including:
- Demonstration of live snake
- Skull demo with discussion of morphological features
- Presentation on Florida scrub ecology, conservation, or other related topics
- Discussion of careers in science
In-person classroom visits are only available for local schools. Contact us to see if your school qualifies.
Support education
We need your help to support the next generation of environmental stewards.
Thanks to support from donors, we have welcomed K-12 students from local schools for decades.
We need your help to continue this important ecological experiential opportunity for young learners.