The Museum offers a “spectrum” of educational programs, and is continually developing new programs. The development of new educational programs depends on corporate and private support. All funds raised at events such as the Bike Fest directly benefit these programs. Thank you for your continued support.

For Schools & Teachers

All-Grades Field Trips: Over five thousand school children from throughout the region visit the Museum during the school year. Two-hour visits include a planetarium show, a tour of the Museum, and a manatee presentation in the aquarium.

Science Curriculum Initiative – Grade Four: Now entering its third year, this Manatee Education Foundation grant-funded program is open to all fourth graders in the Manatee County School District . The grant brings students to the Museum for standards-based (FCAT) learning experiences in Paleontology and Archaeology. Funding covers transportation, workshops for teachers, and the development of learning materials for students. The program will expand next year (2007-2008) to include Life and Environmental Sciences and History programs for eight graders.

Institute for Science Teaching: Recently funded by the Lockheed Martin Corp., this professional development partnership with the Manatee County School District offers six, 32-hour science institutes for science teachers over the course of the 2007-2008 school year. The institutes cover all areas of science content, and teachers receive a stipend for their work.

Museum To Go Outreach Kits: Activity based kits focusing on Archaeology are offered free of charge to schools and community groups throughout the region. Program development funded by the State of Florida.

Manatee County New Teacher Reception: This Axa Financial grant-funded event welcomes all new teachers to the school district and the community at the end of their Induction Week. Teachers are introduced to the Museum's educational programs, and treated to wine and food tasting throughout the evening.

Homeschool Museum Science Education & Enrichment Program: Now entering its third year, this long-term science education program for homeschoolers runs in a three-year content cycle (Earth & Space, Life & Environmental, Physical Science). Four levels of classes are offered (K-2, grades 3-5, 6-8, 9-12). 60 students are enrolled in this year-long program.

For the Community

Thursday Night Family Nights: The Museum is open to the public until 9 pm on Thursday nights, with 50% off our regular admission. Each week, hands-on science activities are offered, in addition to live planetarium programs and lectures.

Special Exhibit-Based Programs: In conjunction with special, temporary exhibits, the Museum hosts educational events for the community. Guest speakers, activity-based programs for kids, and special tours are offered.

Boy Scout/Girl Scout Programs: The Museum offers six badge-earning programs for scouts.

Most popular is the Astronomy Badge sleep-over at the Museum, which includes both indoor (planetarium-based) sessions and outdoor (telescope-based) activities.

New Programs Under Development

Exploring Your World: This new program is aimed at adults living in planned communities throughout the region. Programs, film series, lecture/discussion groups, and learning cadres focusing on Astronomy, Natural History, and Cultural History are offered on an annual subscription basis.