Assignment 8A- Solving the Problem

I believe there is a tremendous need for shark focused education program in South Florida. There are other centers, programs and aquariums, but nothing offers a comprehensive education program which encompasses ecology, science and conservation. The solution is a shark education center.

Sharks4Kids was founded in 2012 and we’ve built a large team of ambassadors and educators. We have also developed a large audience in South Florida and get asked about actives and opportunities for students on a daily basis. We have run several types of programs including shark tagging and science education days, which have always sold out and been extremely successful. Over nearly 5 years, we have built a large community and have worked with thousands of people in this geographic region. If we offered some unique opportunities, people from other areas of Florida would travel to participate in specific programing.

The center would be small to start, as to minimize the overhead costs of running a facility. After interviewing people I believe to be the target audience/customer, I have created a list of programs the center would need to offer to attract guests.

The center would have interactive learning activities as well as a space for presentations and classes. We would also have a small lab space for doing experiments and other hands on activities. School groups, homeschool groups and scout troops would be our primary focus during the week. Evening presentations with special guests would attract a diverse audience from the area. Weekend programs would be open to students from the area and would be separate of a specific group.

During the week we would offer time slots for single classes, groups or schools to visit. They would tour the center, receive a presentation and do hands on activities. The center would work with each group on a one to one basis, increasing the engagement and interaction for students. Activities would allow the students to get involved and to critical think about the information they learn in the lessons. Activities would include mock shark tagging and shark dissections, when possible. Working one on one would also allow us to meet the specific needs of a group. This means aligning with standard curriculum or to match a current unit of study. Working one on one would also mean groups would not be rushed through. This has been a complaint from educators who visit other facilities and one I definitely believe we could offer a solution too.

We would also be able to host virtual field trips via Skype and Google Hangout. This is something we already do, but having the center would allow us to expand on this program. We could offer daily or weekly Skype sessions.

We already have resources available for educators, so these could be used as preparation or follow up to a visit. I would be the only full time employee to start. Additionally, to keep overhead costs down we would have volunteers and interns to assist with the programs. They will gain education, science and conservation experience while also earning credit for their volunteer hours or as an internship. This is another facet we get contacted about a lot, so I believe we could fill these positions.

A weekly schedule might look like:

Monday - Friday: 10-3pm school groups ( 10-12, 1-3)
After school group or program: 3:30-5:30
Sat & Sunday: Open to the general public with specific specialty events and programs.
Evenings: 1-2 monthly evening lecture/presentation with special guests.

During the summer we would definitely explore week long camps, as this is also something we’ve had dozens of requests for. These would be ideal for students interested in sharks and the ocean and would include a diverse range of activities, presentations and field trips.

Items offered:
School group program ( per group or per student)
Home school group program ( per group or per student)
Summer Camp ( per student)
Public entrance ( fee per person)
Evening presentation ( per person)
After school program ( per group or per person)
Merchandise
Field trips ( additional cost, but additional income)

Funding would include donations, sponsors, grants, investors and paying guests/groups. As a 501 (c ) 3 nonprofit, donations are tax deductible which is a key feature to attract potential donors.We can also host events and sell merchandise to generate income. Eventually a membership program ( student, educator, family pass..etc).

Overall, I think a center would help create a new generation of shark and ocean advocates. Kids can make a difference, we just need to give them the tools to do so and encourage their action. If we want to make changes in the environment, kids are critical. They not only influence their parents, but will grow up and make more sustainable choices. I want to create a space where fear of sharks is turned into fascination. I want kids to learn about science by experience it hands on, rather than just in a book. I believe a center could make a huge impact the community and the for the oceans in the area.