Youth Education/Sanibel Sea School - FY 2021-22 SCCF Annual Report

Youth Education

Sanibel Sea School

Shannon Stainken Takes the Helm

In August 2021, Shannon Stainken took on the new role as SCCF’s Youth Education Director. Previously the Education Programs Manager, Stainken has been with Sanibel Sea School since 2017 working to both create and share valuable experiences with students in and around the ocean.

Stainken decided early on to pursue a career in marine science and went on to obtain a bachelor’s degree in marine biology from the University of Miami and a Master of Professional Science in marine conservation from the University of Miami’s Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science.

She is excited to lead and grow Sanibel Sea School for future generations to come and is dedicated to continuing to uphold the traditions and spirit that make it special while also creating new programs that support the mission.

The Gift of Discovery: Private and Family Learning Programs

Sanibel Sea School strongly believes in the value and benefits associated with learning together as a family. Families create shared memories while finding a seahorse or holding a blue crab, and there are several social and developmental benefits of learning together. Family members play a vital role in helping children develop a foundation for lifelong learning by embracing the joys of curiosity and discovery.

Sanibel Sea School offers private programs by boat, paddle craft, or from shore in a variety of diverse barrier island habitats. All sessions are hands-on, customizable, and guided by the families’ needs and interests.

This year, more than 600 participants enjoyed our private sessions. These two-hour adventures are $60 per person and scheduled Monday through Friday. We typically suggest exploring either a seagrass bed, gulfside beach, or a mangrove hammock. Please email sanibelseaschool@sccf. org to learn more.

SEA Lab

This year marked the launch of the SEA (Science Experiments & Activities) Lab — a mobile lab that teaches the joys of marine science on-the-go! The goal of this new program is to expose students to marine science and technology, independent of their location. With microscopes, a smart TV, touch tank, and various lab equipment, it provides fun, hands-on experiments for all ages.

SEA Lab will help facilitate education in two ways — outdoor education in the field and on-the-go, hands-on education at schools, libraries, and community centers — and there’s no limit to where it can go.

Sanibel Sea School’s outreach program is looking forward to bringing the SEA Lab to community partners and schools. For more information, email sanibelseaschool@ sccf.org.

Ocean Tribe Paddlers

Ocean Tribe Paddlers, a Sanibel Sea School initiative focused on engaging the paddling community of Southwest Florida as environmental stewards, hosted 19 paddles during the 2021-2022 season. Members got to explore the mangrove-lined canals of Bowman’s Beach, view stunning sunsets on the water, and see nature’s light show up-close and personal on several bioluminescent paddles.

Those interested in joining Ocean Tribe Paddlers can email OTP@sccf.org or visit oceantribeoutfitters.org for more information and details about upcoming programs.

No Child Left On Shore

The No Child Left On Shore (NCLOS) Environmental Education Outreach Project is a partnership between SCCF and Captiva Cruises that provides local youth a fun way to gain experiential knowledge of our marine environment and form a deeper connection to their coastal surroundings along the way.

NCLOS field trips for youth organizations and schools take place on Captiva Cruises' vessels with SCCF environmental educators aboard.

S C H O L A R S H I P S

Ocean Education for All

At Sanibel Sea School, cost is never a barrier to learning about and loving the ocean. This year, our donor-supported scholarship fund made possible:

� 56 scholarships for children to attend day programs

� 187 scholarships for children to attend weekly summer or winter camps

� Field trips for 1,129 public school students

� Long-term partnerships with three organizations: The Heights Foundation, Childcare of Southwest Florida, and Pine Manor Community Improvement Association

� A new partnership with the Boys & Girls Club of Lee County

� Meaningful experiences for 1,030 landlocked children in the region

Thanks

� $52,823 in financial support for camp tuition assistance

SCCF'S PICK PRESERVE AS AN OUTDOOR CLASSROOM

Named for donors Sue and Tom Pick, SCCF's Pick Preserve is part of approximately 400 acres of land in which SCCF, the State of Florida, and the City of Sanibel own parcels. Located across from the Sanibel School, SCCF's Pick Preserve is an ideal setting to incorporate environmental science into the school's curriculum. Kindergarteners through eighth graders take part in experiential learning at the SCCF Pick Preserve nature trail, boardwalk, and gazebo.