Coral Reef Classroom, a project of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, has provided free educational excursions to the reef for over 4,000 local students and teachers since 1991. Developing environmental stewardship is the focus as students develop their own hypotheses about the condition of essential habitats, record and compare field observations, and discuss ecosystem management strategies.

The objective of Coral Reef Classroom is to teach basic coral reef biology and concepts of habitat interdependence by engaging students in activities such as water quality sampling, and data collection and evaluation. These exercises encourage analytical thinking, demonstrate the role management plays in protecting natural resources, and informs students about careers in environmental science.

Each Coral Reef Classroom program includes a shoreside presentation and a boat trip to the coral reef. During the classroom session, students experience their first hands-on practice with the Nisken bottle, Secchi disc, refractometer, dissolved oxygen kit, wind meter, and compass. Discussion about coral reef ecology is guided by the Coral Reef Classroom instructor using examples illustrated with colorful slides.

During the field trip, the instructor and trained volunteers assist students with sampling methods at each of three stations on the boat. Students learn how to collect and record oceanographic data and the importance of monitoring the condition of the coral reef ecosystem. A plankton tow near the reef site emphasizes marine biology as students collect, observe, and identify plankton and learn its importance in the food web. The remainder of the field trip is spent snorkeling at a Florida Keys reef, where the instructor and volunteers offer guidance and ensure safety in the water.

Enthusiastic support by community volunteers and charter businesses in the Keys has made this program possible. They provide a vital link in students' exploration of career possibilities. The Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary also offers Coral Reef Classroom to out-of-county groups who charter their own boat (subject to staff availability).