Education is central to New York Sea Grant’s mission. We deliver science-based learning experiences across age groups and settings to help students, educators, and early-career professionals build knowledge, skills, and a deeper understanding of New York’s marine and Great Lakes resources.

NYSG provides opportunities for K-12 classrooms, out-of-school programs, undergraduate, graduate, and adult education to increase their environmental literacy and prepare the next generation of coastal decision-makers, scientists, and stewards.

While most NYSG staff function as extension educators, currently education efforts are focused in the Marine District (Long Island, NYC, and Westchester County) and the Great Lakes. 
 
K-12 & Informal Education

Our marine and Great Lakes education specialists work with teachers, schools, and regional partners, such as nature centers, aquariums, and museums, to bring engaging, place-based science into the classroom and beyond. Topics have included aquatic invasive species, water quality, fisheries, habitat conservation, marine debris, estuarine ecology, and coastal resiliency issues affecting New York’s coasts. 

We offer:

Opportunities: 

• Field-based stewardship programs for youth 

• Professional development and training programs for teachers and educators

• Undergraduate and graduate opportunities for internships and fellowships 

Resources: 

• Classroom activities, lesson plans, and hands on materials aligned with state learning standards 

Our Educational Impact

From P-12 classrooms to professional development workshops, New York Sea Grant’s education programs support a continuum of lifelong learning that helps individuals understand, apply, and share science-based knowledge about marine and Great Lakes issues. Each year, New York Sea Grant works directly with over 300 teachers and educators across New York State. Combined with NYSG’s student programming, this results in reaching over 12,500 students every year.

Want More Info?

Contact our education specialists via NYSG's staff directory 

Note: be sure to filter by: 'Focus Area' (choose: Environmental Literacy and Workforce Development) and  'Admin or Extension' (choose: Extension)