Not a traditional school group but still looking for a teaching lab experience?
Mote SEA Group Programs provide engaging, educator-led marine science experiences designed specifically for non-traditional learning communities. Homeschool groups, co-ops, clubs, and other community-based organizations will explore the wonders of the ocean through hands-on STEM learning, interactive activities, and self-guided aquarium experiences.
Each program includes a one hour, station-based learning experience in one of Mote’s state-of-the-art Teaching Laboratories. Groups may choose one of three themed lessons described below. Developed by Mote educators and inspired by current research, these afternoon programs encourage curiosity, collaboration, and environmental stewardship while connecting learners of all backgrounds to the marine world. Group Programs are offered in the afternoons and provide a flexible option for community organizations seeking a memorable educational experience outside of the traditional school-day field trip schedule.
Following their time in the Teaching Labs, groups are invited to explore the aquarium at their own pace through a self-guided tour.
Questions?
Please contact Lisa at 941-388-4441, ext.348, or educate@mote.org.
Running late for your group program? Please call Brad at (941) 388-4441 ext. 351.
Group Program Options
General Information
Group Program Policies
Lesson & Program descriptions: Browse through your options here.
Please note: Lessons are designed to be inclusive of multiple age ranges. Group program reservations are only available on weekdays in the afternoon from 1:30pm – 3:30pm. Weekend sessions are not available for this type of program.
Reservation Sizes
‘Participants’ are defined as all children and adults.
- Minimum of 15 participants.
- Maximum of 180 participants across all reservations.
One Teaching Lab reservation can accommodate up to 60 participants. Groups with larger attendance may reserve multiple Teaching Labs (subject to availability).
For the best experience, we recommend reserving for no more than 60 participants (1 Teaching Lab) so your entire group can participate in the same lesson.
Groups larger than 180 participants should contact educate@mote.org before making a reservation.
Pricing
Group Programs can only be booked as a combined experience of Aquarium Admission and Teaching Lab program.
The Education Program discount rate is $29 per student.
Chaperones
A chaperone is defined as any adult attending the group program, including teachers, group or organization staff, parents, and guardians. Chaperones should arrive prepared to actively supervise and assist participants throughout the visit.
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- We provide 1 complimentary chaperone admission for every 10 paid students.
- Additional chaperones are welcome and will be charged $25 per person. There is no limit on the number of additional chaperones who may attend, provided the total group size remains within the program’s capacity limits.
- Chaperones are welcome to participate in the group program alongside their students. To help create the best experience for everyone, we ask that chaperones support educators by helping students stay engaged and following program instructions.
Please note: Adults / Mote members / additional chaperones will not be allowed to join or participate in the field trip if they purchase admission separately.
