Nature, History & Science Education Programs for Our Park & Your Classroom!
We understand that one of the most important aspects about our park is educating youth about local ecosystems and the importance of preserving these special lands. The Savannas Preserve State Park offers all types of environmental education programs for school groups, and below you will find a full description of each one. These programs provide students with meaningful and enlightening experiences, as well as long-lasting memories that they will cherish for their lifetime. The Education Center buildings are closed for renovation as of October 2021.
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Super Heroes of the SavannasThere are animals in the Savannas that are special in the way other animals and plants depend on them for survival. These are called "keystone species." In this program students will learn about the American Alligator and the Gopher Tortoise, and about the important role they play in Florida's environment.
Recommended for kindergarten. |
Habitat is HomeWhat's a habitat? Who lives there? What does a habitat provide for wildlife? Students will learn all this and more in this interactive program about habitats, wildlife needs, and adaptations. A nature walk is included where participants learn about native habitats, plant species, and may see some animals living in the wild.
Recommended for 1st grade. |
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Friendly FireFlorida has many fire-dependent natural communities. In these habitats, the plant and animal life thrive when fire burns off undergrowth, and fresh vegetation is allowed to grow in its place. The Florida Park Service uses prescribed fire as a means to care for the park's wild species. Students will learn about fire, the difference between wild fire and prescribed fire, as well as meet a real wild land fire fighter who will demonstrate equipment used during prescribed burning.
Recommended for 2nd grade. |
Wonders of WaterStudents will have a blast exploring the wonders of water in this hands-on, interactive program. Participants will learn about the water cycle, wetlands, properties of water, as well as watershed issues as they rotate through multiple learning stations.
Recommended for 3rd grade. |
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Chores on the Pineapple PlantationOne hundred years ago, much of Savannas Preserve State Park and the surrounding area was known as the "Pineapple Capital of the World." In this program, students get to participate in living history, playing the role of those who lived and worked in those times. Children will engage in hands-on activities like corn and coffee grinding, old fashioned clothes washing; and will play old-fashioned games from that era. They will also go on a walk to find plants that pioneers used for food, shelter, and medicine.
Recommended for 4th grade. |
Remembering the AisWhat was Florida like before the pioneers settled here? Who lived here? This program facilitates learning about the Ais Indians who lived in this part of Florida up until 300 years ago. Students will learn what the Ais were like and how they lived. They will get to see and handle tools and utensils used by these Native Americans, as well as learn about the plants they used for food and medicines.
Recommended for 4th grade. |
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Marsh MadnessStudents become Energy Explorers in this outdoor immersion course. They'll learn about energy flow, trophic levels, and more as they hike through the park. Afterward, students engage in biological sampling (dip-netting) in the Savannas Preserve State Park's 1,000-acre basin marsh. This activity facilitates an understanding of wetland food webs and other interconnections in aquatic systems.
Recommended for 5th graders. |