Learning in Florida's Environment

What is the Learning in Florida's Environment (LIFE) program?

LIFE is a science-based environmental education enrichment program developed initially by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection in 2004. In Sarasota, the LIFE program is an award-winning, multi-agency collaborative effort. It is coordinated by UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County in partnership with Florida Sea Grant; Oscar Scherer and Myakka River State Parks; Florida State Parks Foundation; Florida Conservation Corps AmeriCorps; Sarasota County School District; and EdExploreSRQ. LIFE:

• Engages fourth and fifth grade students in an in-class presentation followed by a field experience on public conservation lands with differing ecosystems throughout the school year.
• Promotes knowledge, skills, and stewardship presentation through meaningful hands-on field experiences.
• Reinforces school science curriculum and supports standardized test success.
• Facilitated by educators, scientists, and land/resource managers who model careers in science and nature.
• Successfully educates youth on the importance of local ecosystems, conservation, management challenges, and scientific careers.

Learn more about LIFE in Sarasota County

• LIFE at Myakka River State Park

LIFE "Science Shorts"

LIFE Science Shorts are 10- to 15-minute videos that feature an education presentation by a subject matter expert. Videos include demonstrations of experiments or activities that can easily be done at school or home.

Resources

For more information (e.g., sample labs, pre- and post-test surveys, teacher and volunteer evaluations, etc.) email Katherine Clements (kclements@scgov.net)