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Applications for the 2025-2026 Junior SeaKeepers Program will open in Summer 2025.
Overview
The Junior SeaKeepers Program offers a unique marine science program for students in grades 9 – 12 to gain practical experience in oceanographic research while actively participating in marine conservation efforts within South Florida, primarily Miami-Dade County*. Under the guidance of local and global marine science experts, students will delve into various marine science topics, honing their skills in scientific research, effective science communication, and community engagement. This exceptional educational program is completely free, aiming to cultivate a new generation of ocean ambassadors equipped to comprehend and address the challenges our oceans face on a significant scale.
*We are currently accepting applications from students in Broward and Miami-Dade Counties, as well as the Upper Florida Keys. Public, private, charter, and homeschool students are encouraged to apply, although priority will be given to students attending Title I funded schools in Miami-Dade County.
Become a Junior SeaKeeper
Applications will be open from June - September every year for October - June programming. Applications for the 2025-2026 Junior SeaKeepers Program will open in Summer 2025.
It is important to note that scheduled activities are mandatory for program credit (see program summary), it is recommended that applicants thoroughly review the schedule for any major conflicts before applying and reach out to [email protected] with any questions about conflicts.
- Spend time on South Florida's Biscayne Bay while learning how to conserve the ecosystems.
- Act as leaders at community cleanups.
- Receive community service hours for all beach cleanups and webinars attended.
- Present their scientific marine research findings to peers and parents.
- Engage in environmental advocacy through partnered trainings.
- Earn scholarship funding based on participation.
- The marine environment through webinars with local experts.
- The scientific method through hands-on research.
- The art of science communication and effective storytelling through creative projects.
- The process of becoming a champion for environmental conservation through partnered advocacy trainings.
- A certificate indicating completion of the program.
- Community service hours for beach cleanups, webinars, and floating classroom outings.
- A SeaKeepers “Swag Bag” (that includes a T-shirt, a reusable water bottle, metal straws, etc.).
- Scholarship opportunities based on participation.
- The JSK Program offers oceanographic research and community service experience, fostering marine conservation education for students in grades 9-12.
- Three scholarships awarded each year, totaling $10,000 among three students: Junior SeaKeeper of the Year, Coastal Champion, and Conservation Communicator.
- Scholarships based on program participation, project completion, community engagement, and interest in marine science, education, communication, and environmental improvement.
- Explore the details of scholarship awards and eligibility criteria within our comprehensive Junior SeaKeepers Program Summary.