Junior SeaKeepers Program
SeaKeepers provides high school students in Southeast Florida with hands-on experiences in marine science research, professional development, and community outreach and empowers them to educate their local communities about marine conservation issues.
Applications for the 2025-2026 Junior SeaKeepers Program are now open.
Overview
The Junior SeaKeepers Program offers students in grades 9-12 hands-on experience in oceanographic research and marine conservation in South Florida, mainly Miami-Dade County. Guided by marine science experts, students explore marine science topics while developing skills in research, science communication, and community engagement. This free program aims to create a new generation of ocean ambassadors ready to tackle ocean challenges.
*We are currently accepting applications from students in Broward and Miami-Dade Counties and the Upper Florida Keys. Public, private, charter, and homeschool students are welcome to apply, with priority given to those attending Title I funded schools in Miami-Dade County.
Become a Junior SeaKeeper
Junior SeaKeepers will have the opportunity to:
- Spend time on South Florida's Biscayne Bay while learning how to conserve the ecosystems.
- Act as leaders at community cleanups.
- Receive community service hours for all beach cleanups and webinars attended.
- Present their scientific marine research findings to peers and parents.
- Engage in environmental advocacy through partnered trainings.
- Earn scholarship funding based on participation.
Junior SeaKeepers will learn about:
- The marine environment through webinars with local experts.
- The scientific method through hands-on research.
- The art of science communication and effective storytelling through creative projects.
- The process of becoming a champion for environmental conservation through partnered advocacy trainings.
Junior SeaKeepers will receive:
- A certificate indicating completion of the program.
- Community service hours for beach cleanups, webinars, and floating classroom outings.
- A SeaKeepers “Swag Bag” (that includes a T-shirt, a reusable water bottle, metal straws, etc.).
- Scholarship opportunities based on participation.
Annual Scholarships Overview
- The JSK Program offers oceanographic research and community service experience, fostering marine conservation education for students in grades 9-12.
- Three scholarships awarded each year, totaling $10,000 among three students: Junior SeaKeeper of the Year, Coastal Champion, and Conservation Communicator.
- Scholarships based on program participation, project completion, community engagement, and interest in marine science, education, communication, and environmental improvement.
- Explore the details of scholarship awards and eligibility criteria within our comprehensive Junior SeaKeepers Program Summary.