Mote Homeschool Advanced Program (HSAP)
Applications for the 2026-2027 school year are now CLOSED.
Thank you for your interest in the Mote Homeschool Advanced Program! Applications for the 2026–2027 school year are no longer being accepted. We greatly appreciate the enthusiasm and support shown for this program. Families who submitted applications will hear back regarding their application status by July 15, 2026.
In the meantime, be sure to check back later this summer for upcoming Fall Homeschool Day opportunities!
Questions & HSAP Contacts
Questions for 9-11 age group: Kim Scaringe, kscaringe@mote.org
Questions for 12-16 age group: Shannon Powers, spowers@mote.org
These classes are typically eligible for reimbursement through the Step Up scholarship program. All questions regarding scholarships should be directed towards the Step Up program.
We look forward to a great year!
Onsite Homeschool Days
Meet us at Mote SEA to explore exciting aspects of Mote research and marine science through engaging, hands-on learning experiences for homeschool students ages 6–14. Join us for monthly classes designed for 6–9 year olds, 10–14 year olds, and a class to accommodate families with students ages 6–14. All fall semester Homeschool Day Programs will be offered in the afternoons from 1:30-3:30pm at Mote SEA. The Mote SEA Teaching Laboratory locations and class themes will change on a monthly basis.
September
Tide, Toxins, and Tiny Things: How Mote scientists are helping red tide efforts!
This September, homeschoolers will embark on an exciting adventure as we explore one of Florida’s most important environmental challenges—red tide. Through this program, we will dive into real-world research highlights and perform hands-on investigations to showcase the ground-breaking work that Mote scientists are doing on red tide efforts. Join us at Mote SEA to discover how these tiny organisms can have a big impact and uncover how research and innovation are helping to create healthier oceans in our own backyard.
Dates:
Ages 6-9: September 15 (Tues) & September 23 (Wed)
Ages 10-14: September 16 (Wed) & September 24 (Thurs)
Ages 6-14: September 17 (Thurs) & September 22 (Tues)
October
Octo-ber Adventures: All about Cephalopods!
This October, homeschoolers will dive into the fascinating world of cephalopods as we explore some of the ocean’s most intelligent and extraordinary creatures. Through this program, participants will uncover the secrets of these captivating animals and investigate the incredible adaptations that help them survive underneath the waves. Join us at Mote SEA to discover why cephalopods continue to inspire scientists, engineers, and ocean explorers around the world.
Dates:
Ages 6-9: October 21 (Wed) & October 29 (Thurs)
Ages 10-14: October 20 (Tues) & October 28 (Wed)
Ages 6-14: October 22 (Thurs) & October 27 (Tues)
November
Warmth Beneath the Waves: How our ocean animals survive the cold!
With the chilly months quickly approaching and our northern friends beginning to welcome in the winter, join us to discover the wondrous ways that our ocean friends survive the cold beneath the waves! Homeschoolers at Mote SEA will ignite their exploration and understanding of the fascinating adaptations that help marine animals stay warm and thrive in a changing environment. Through hands-on activities, participants will immerse themselves in a seasonally influenced investigation while also learning how Mote researchers and professionals help animals affected by extreme cold events.
Dates:
Ages 6-9: November 12 (Thurs) & November 17 (Tues)
Ages 10-14: November 11 (Wed) & November 19 (Thurs)
Ages 6-14: November 10 (Tues) & November 18 (Wed)
December
SEA-sons’ Greetings: Marine decorations and defenses!
This Holiday season, homeschoolers will explore some of the creative ways that ocean animals stay hidden in plain sight – camouflage! Through interactive explanations and hands-on activities, participants will explore the fascinating world of marine camouflage and how some creative critters use nature’s own decorations to survive in their ocean home. Join us at Mote SEA for a festive journey into the hidden world of ocean survival – where decorations aren’t just for the holidays!
Dates:
Ages 6-9: December 10 (Thurs) & December 16 (Wed)
Ages 10-14: December 9 (Wed) & December 15 (Tues)
Ages 6-14: December 8 (Tues) & December 17 (Thurs)
