K-12 Education
We offer land- and boat-based student programs led by our education staff across the coast. Programs for the 2020-2021 school year will begin booking in August 2020.
A Seaworthy Classroom
Aboard a 45’ catamaran, the E/V Discovery, our educators lead science investigations using field sampling techniques and equipment that echo current research methods. Students assist in data collection and sample various marine organisms during their visit. With an emphasis on estuarine ecology, groups connect local conservation issues to broad science concepts while developing critical science investigation skills. Together, we are working to create coastal stewards for the future of South Carolina’s fisheries and coasts.
Book a Program Near You
- Reservations are first come, first served.
- There is no fee for school groups.
- Minimum 15 students; Maximum 65 students (per day). You can book multiple days for large grade levels.
- We serve as many students in this state as possible, so please only book one grade from each school.
- We reserve the right to reschedule or modify your program with proper notification.
Fort Johnson
217 Ft. Johnson Rd.
Charleston, SC 29412
McKenzie Field Station
15717 Bennett's Point Rd.
Green Pond, SC 29446
Botany Bay Plantation
Botany Bay Rd.
Edisto Island, SC 29438
Edisto Environmental Learning Center
Oyster Row Ln.
Edisto Island, SC 29438
How to book a program:
- Choose a program location.
- Select a program from the "Program Descriptions" above.
- Click "Book A Program" to see available dates and reserve your program. (The E/V Discovery boat is unavailable December 15, 2019 through March 1, 2020. Please do not book the boat during winter months. If you are a K-4th grade group, please book January or February.)
Homeschool Groups
We are scheduling homeschool groups differently this year. There are set dates for your students, and you can book a program as an individual family or as an organized group.
March 3rd, 2020 - Botany Bay Plantation May 14th, 2020 - Edisto Learning CenterResources and Lesson Plans
ACE Basin Activity Book
Designed to instill a stronger awareness and respect for environmentalism and conservation and to encourage young students to enjoy discovering coastal South Carolina.
Estuaries 101
This new curriculum is designed for grades 6-12 to deepen students’ understanding about estuaries and how estuaries affect their daily lives. Estuaries offer an exciting context for learning about math, chemistry, marine science, and more.
Sea Sciences
A series of educational publications put together by scientists and educators of the Marine Resources Division at SCDNR. Each lesson goes into detail about a variety of marine related topics.