Spring Marine Science Semester Program

For all of our ocean-loving students!

This spring program introduces students ages 10-17 to the underwater ecosystems of California through a series of online classes that blend ocean science, conservation, and hands on community science methods. Students explore kelp forests, seagrass meadows, invasive species, coastal monitoring programs, and the use of modern ocean technology. The semester concludes with an optional full day field science experience on Catalina Island where students apply what they have learned through real underwater research activities.

Semester Program Details

The spring semester includes six live online classes.

Classes are on Monday evenings from 6:30pm-7:30pm via Zoom.

Monday, March 9th – Kelp Forest Ecosystems

Explore the dynamic kelp forest ecosystem and the key species that create, sustain, and depend on this underwater habitat. Learn how environmental conditions, human activity, and conservation efforts shape the health and resilience of kelp forests.

Monday, March 23rd – Seagrass Ecosystems

Dive into the world of seagrass meadows—vital coastal habitats that support biodiversity, stabilize sediments, and capture carbon. This class examines the ecological roles of seagrass, threats to its survival, and strategies for restoration.

Monday, April 6th – Invasive Species Management

Understand how non-native species impact marine and coastal ecosystems, from altering food webs to competing with native species. Participants will discuss detection methods, prevention strategies, and ongoing management efforts.

Monday, April 20th – Applications of Underwater Community Science

Learn how divers and snorkelers contribute to marine research by measuring fish abundance with REEF and tracking marine debris distributions with PADI AWARE. This class highlights the power of community data collection in protecting underwater ecosystems.

Monday, May 4th – Applications of Coastal Community Science

Discover how community scientists collect valuable data onshore by tracking debris from beach cleanups and monitoring human use of marine protected areas through MPA Watch. Students will explore how these efforts inform coastal management and conservation policy.

Monday, May 18th – Applications of Ocean Technology in Community Science

Explore how innovative tools are transforming ocean science through community participation. Learn about software that identifies individual fish and sharks by their unique spot patterns, photogrammetry used to map underwater wrecks for ghost net removal, and reef-mounted cameras with trained software that identify species and measure fish abundance.

Monday, June 8th - Coastal and Underwater Community Science Day on Catalina Island

(Required Classes: Kelp Forest Ecosystems, Applications of Underwater Community Science, and Applications of Coastal Community Science)

This full day Coastal and Underwater Community Science program takes place at Casino Point Dive Park on Catalina Island, a beautiful marine protected area in Avalon. Students participate in both a REEF snorkel survey and an MPA Watch survey during the same day, gaining experience with data collection above and below the surface. While snorkeling through the kelp forest, students use underwater slates and fish identification sheets to record every species they observe. On land, students complete the designated MPA Watch transect at Casino Point to document human activity within the marine protected area. All equipment is provided for the day including wetsuits, masks, snorkels, and fins.

(separate cost, most charter schools will not cover this field day)

Pricing Options

Option One: Full Spring Semester

Cost: $385, 6-class series

Students enrolled in the full semester qualify for a discounted Catalina field science day rate of $175

Total: $550

Option Two: Partial Semester and Field Day

Cost: $195, Required Classes Included: Kelp Forest Ecosystems, Applications of Underwater Community Science, and Applications of Coastal Community Science.

Field Day: $225

Field Day Parent Participation options:

Cost: $99 ferry ticket only (ride the ferry and stay with us or enjoy the town of Avalon)

Field Day: $225 for the full snorkel program including ferry, gear, and guided experience

This is a full day experience. Families meet early in the morning at Long Beach for the ferry, and will return in the evening.

Notes:

• Charter Funds and HFAC Credits are accepted (some charter schools will not pay for the Catalina Island Field Day)

• Monthly charter fund fee is $135, if submitting monthly, for online classes.

• Supervision by HFAC Live-Scanned educators and marine science educators

• The field day is an optional drop-off class for students ages 10-17 (parents are welcome to the field day with a ticket)

• Needs-based scholarship applications are available for the online class, and may also cover a portion of the field day.

• A minimum number of students are required to run this class in the spring. Share with your friends!

• There are no refunds available for the online classes. Cancellation for the field day qualify for a partial refund.

  
  

Questions? Don’t hesitate to reach out!

Enrolling with Charter Funds? Select "Manual Payment" at checkout, and submit your purchase order with your school.