K-12 Curriculum
The Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) was instrumental in the development of a K-12 education program at the Center. Funding from this organization led to the creation of two separate curricula that complement the Center's exhibit gallery and interpretive trails. Funding for the gallery and the interpretive signage was also provided by, in part, by SWFWMD.

The Islands and the Estuary
This curriculum addresses the structure and components of the Tampa Bay estuary using the coastal habitats of Weedon Island Preserve as a study site. Curriculum guides are available at the teacher's request. Readings and pre-trip classroom activities in the guide help prepare students for their field trip to Weedon Island Preserve. During the field trip, appropriate grade-level activities and hikes support the curriculum. Teachers may then follow up with post-trip activities in the classroom.

This curriculum is designed for use at the middle and high school levels. However, the field trip can be tailored to meet the needs of any class in grades K-12. The Islands and the Estuary field trip has two parts that run either concurrently or sequentially, depending on the tides, grade level, and/or group size.

To learn more about this curriculum, please contact us. Ask for the Environmental Educator in charge of the Islands and the Estuary.

The Islands and the People
This curriculum highlights the people who have lived on Weedon Island Preserve over time. The focus of this program is to show how people and the land have supported and shaped each other throughout history. The readings are written at the 8th grade level, but can be scaled down to meet the needs of younger students. Curriculum guides are available at the teacher's request. Teachers can use the readings and pre-trip classroom activities to prepare students for their field trip to Weedon Island Preserve. During the field trip, age-appropriate activities and hikes support the curriculum. The teacher may then follow up with post-trip activities in the classroom.

For more information or to arrange a field trip, please contact us. Ask for the Environmental Educator in charge of the Islands and the People.