Mote Marine Laboratory

A donation to Kinnan Elementary School by Lockheed Martin allowed the entire student body to experience science first-hand outside of the classroom by participating in the Mote Aquarium’s Mote Marine Laboratory program. In curriculum tailored to their grade level, students were taught how one’s everyday actions affect the environment and all things living in it.

Committed to the Future of Tallevast

Every aspect of the experience taught the students the importance of science and technology and reiterated Lockheed Martin’s commitment to the education of Manatee County students. "Lockheed Martin's donation helped our boys and girls to become marine biologists for a day," said Kinnan Principal Kristopher Bayer.

A True Experience

Students were able to interact with seahorses, crabs and jellies — an experience many of them would never have had if not for this unique program. Some students were able to catch marine animals with dip nets and classify them. Fifth graders even participated in the dissection of a squid, which taught the students the different parts of the animal and its functions. "We hope to make this an annual event," Bayer said. "Since the program is different for each grade level, the students will experience new things every year."

Explore:

• Photo Gallery
• News & Media Coverage