Education

The Mission-Aransas Reserve Education Program strives to enhance public understanding of the value and function of estuaries and to encourage protection of the coastal environment.

The Reserve offers a wide variety of environmental learning experiences for students, families, adults, and youth. Our unique programs immerse learners in activities and experiences that inspire curiosity, make science connections, promote stewardship, and build an appreciation for our marine and coastal environments.

Educators

We provide a range of STEM and environmental learning experiences for classroom and home school students and teachers throughout the year. Our TEK-aligned programs immerse learners in guided-inquiry and place-based activities that inspire curiosity, connect to research, promote stewardship, and refine STEM process skills.

School programs are offered at the UTMSI campus in Port Aransas, Texas as well as at the Bay Education Center in Rockport, Texas. Both locations offer a variety of student and teacher learning experiences in and outside the classroom.  We can also come to your classroom or learning center! Learn more, incuding how to reserve a program, from our For Teachers page. 

Community Education

Visit and explore coastal environments, wildlife and research in two dynamic locations—the Marine Science Education Center (MSEC) in Port Aransas, Texas and the Bay Education Center (BEC) in Rockport, Texas. Both facilities offer a variety of self-guided and guided learning opportunities for families, adults, youth, and organized groups.

Learn more about programs and other activities from our Community Education page, as well as the Bay Education Center page. 

Educators on the R/V Skimmer for Teachers on The Estuary Program in 2015. Photo credit Nicole Pringle.

Students can get out from behind their desks and into a living classroom at the Wetlands Education Center.