Learning in Florida's Environment (LIFE)
What is LIFE?
- 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.
- Grade 4 -5 students participate in three in-class and three field experiences on public conservation lands throughout the school year.
- Promotes knowledge, skills, and stewardship among Florida youth through meaningful hands-on field experiences.
- Reinforces school science curriculum and supports standardized test success.
- Facilitated by educators, scientists, and land/resource managers who engage youth in science and model scientific careers.
- Successfully educates youth on the importance of local ecosystems, conservation, management challenges, and scientific careers.
Learn more about LIFE in Sarasota County
LIFE "Science Shorts" videos
Resources for educators
- Explanation of LIFE program (coming soon)
- What to do next (coming soon)
- Program request form (coming soon)
- LIFE: Field trip schedule (SAMPLE)
- Example: State park entrance fee waiver (coming soon)
- Example: LIFE lab (coming soon)
- Grant funding information (coming soon)
- Testimonial: Why I love the LIFE program (coming soon)
- Testimonial: Why I love the LIFE program (coming soon)
- LIFE Program flier (2019)
Resources for UF/IFAS Extension offices
- What is the LIFE Program?
- LIFE: Start an Extension program in your county
- Connect to a state park in your area (coming soon)
- Connect with a school district/teacher in your area (coming soon)
- Aligning your program to curriculum standards (coming soon)
- LIFE Program information poster (2019)
- Testimonial: Why I love the LIFE program (coming soon)
- For more information (e.g., sample labs, pre- and post-test surveys, teacher and volunteer evaluations, etc.) email Katherine Clements (kclements@scgov.net)
Learn More
Learn more about LIFE, our Learning in Florida's Environments program that brings science and nature to life for students and teachers