Education

Enhancing public awareness, understanding, and appreciation of the marine environment

To receive the latest announcements about upcoming distance learning opportunities, as well as educator and student opportunities and resources, be sure to sign up to the Sanctuary Education list serv.

3 teachers on a beach

For Teachers

The NOAA Office of National Marine Sanctuaries aims to provide teachers with resources and training to support ocean literacy in America's classrooms.

students observing a teacher with a starfish

For Students

National marine sanctuaries are living classrooms that can be explored in person or through interactive digital labs and activities.

ocean guardian programs

Ocean Guardian Programs

Ocean Guardian programs encourage children to explore their natural surroundings to form a sense of personal connection to the ocean and/or watersheds in which they live.

A diver swims behind a sea turtle with a 360 degree camera

Sanctuaries 360° Virtual Reality Lessons

Sanctuaries 360° is a collection of immersive underwater experiences to bring America’s underwater treasures to viewers all over the world. Check out the virtual reality videos and 360° immersive photos to explore your national marine sanctuaries from the comfort of our home.

kids and an adult in a kayak

Games and Activities

Games, coloring pages, and fun activities to help you learn about the National Marine Sanctuaries.

kids and an adult in a kayak

Student Scholarships

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) offers many scholarships, internships, fellowships and post docs for undergraduate and graduate students.

photo montage of students

Education Strategic Plan

Learn more about our education vision and mission, and download our Education Strategic Plan 2010-2020.

2022 Education Infographic clipping

2022 Education Infographic

Every day, our educators share the treasures of the National Marine Sanctuary System with the public. We work to engage, inspire, and connect people with these special places and spark wonder in visitors young and old. In 2022, we worked with more than 74,515 students and 16,237 educators.

Education at your Sanctuary

 

map highlighting national marine sanctuary locations