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Programs at the Shaw Institute

The Shaw Institute offers a diverse range of educational programs designed to inspire curiosity and foster a deeper understanding of science and environmental stewardship. Our programs cater to various age groups and learning styles, providing hands-on experiences and engaging discussions led by our researchers.

A key feature of our on-site programs is the opportunity to interact with marine invertebrates in our 200-gallon touch tank.

🛻 Bring the Science to Your Classroom! We’ll bring our researchers and equipment to you.  We can’t bring along our 200-gallon touch tank, but we can bring hands-on interactive experiments adapted for your classroom.  Mileage & staff fees apply. 

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Lab Tours & Immersive Investigations:

Shaw Institute Lab Tour

  • 1 hour
  • Grades 3-12
  • 5-25 Students

Embark on a behind-the-scenes tour of the Shaw Institute’s laboratories. Participants will gain firsthand insight into critical scientific research conducted at the Shaw Institute. This includes the analysis of plastic pollution in human tissue and the environment, as well as monitoring coastal water quality around the peninsula. This tour provides a foundational understanding of the scientific research conducted at the Institute and the environmental issues impacting the Gulf of Maine.

Microplastics Investigation Lab

  • 1 hour
  • Grades 5-12
  • 5-25 Students

Dive into the pervasive issue of plastic pollution in this hands-on laboratory experience. Students will analyze real-world plastic samples and explore the structure and properties of plastics. Participants will leave with a better understanding of humans Impact on Earth systems. This program emphasizes critical thinking and scientific inquiry.

To Swim or Not To Swim: Beach Bacteria Investigation

  • 1 hour
  • Grades 6-12
  • 5-25 Students

For more than 15 years, the Shaw Institute has conducted beach monitoring across the Blue Hill Peninsula, analyzing fecal bacteria levels to ensure swimmers’ safety. Through this educational initiative, participants explore the consequences of human activity on natural resources and ecosystems by investigating the hidden dangers of watershed pollution. (mobile 🛻)

Exploring Marine Life & Ecosystems:

Plankton Adaptations & Creations

  • 1 hour
  • Grades 5-9
  • 5-25 Students

Uncover the vital role of plankton, the microscopic powerhouses of the ocean, in this engaging program. Students will learn about the incredible adaptations that allow plankton to thrive and then unleash their creativity by constructing their own phytoplankton models. This program highlights the foundational importance of these tiny organisms in marine food webs. (mobile 🛻)

Food Webs and Bioaccumulation

  • 1 hour
  • Grades 2-5
  • 8-30 Students

This extended program uses interactive activities to illustrate the intricate connections within marine food webs. Participants will explore concepts of energy transfer, understand how microplastics accumulate in the food chain, and even participate in their own simulated seal necropsy (aka autopsy) to observe the impacts of environmental stressors on marine mammals. (mobile 🛻)

Seashore Science: Marine Invertebrates

  • 1 hour
  • PK-18yrs+
  • 5-20 Students

From Barnacles to Sea Stars, explore the diverse world of marine invertebrates with our 200-gallon touch tank! This interactive program offers students a hands-on opportunity to learn about the structure and function, and the adaptations of these fascinating invertebrates in Maine. The content can be customized to focus on specific topics, including coastal habitats, ecosystems, and more.

Early Learner Engagement:

Storytime with Charlie the Shark

  • 1 hour
  • Grades PK-2
  • 5-30 Students
  • Free/Donations Accepted

Introduce our youngest ocean enthusiasts to the wonders of the marine world with Charlie the Shark! This delightful storytime features ocean-themed tales and songs, fostering an early appreciation for aquatic life. An optional craft activity allows for further creative expression. (mobile 🛻)

Educational Film Experience

Documentary Screening

Sludge: A PFAS Uprising

  • 1 hour
  • Grades 9 - Adults
  • Any Group Size

Screen this powerful documentary, which illuminates the stories of Maine family farmers confronting the widespread poisoning of their land, water, livestock, and health by PFAS, or “forever chemicals.” The film raises critical questions about accountability and the immediate actions needed to safeguard our environment and resources for future generations. An accompanying educational guide is provided to facilitate a deeper understanding of the societal response to the pervasive effects of these chemicals. (mobile 🛻)

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Program Pricing:

Our education programs are designed to accommodate various group sizes, and our pricing reflects the resources and staffing required to ensure a high-quality experience for all participants. The Group Fee covers all necessary supplies and equipment for your program.

The following outlines our pricing tiers:

  • Groups of 5 or fewer: $45
  • Groups of 6 to 10 participants: $75
  • Groups of 11 to 15 participants: $105
  • More than 16: $150


Mobile Program Pricing:

  • Service Area: At this time, a 75-mile radius from the Shaw Institute, located in Blue Hill, ME.
  • Mobile Programs Transportation Fee: $0.80 per mile for the round trip.
  • Average staff hourly rate: $30, includes travel time

Customization and Contact Information:

All programs are adaptable and can be combined to meet specific educational needs or ages. For further information or to discuss customized program options, please contact the Shaw Institute:

PROGRAM INQUIRY

Shaw Institute Program Policies

  • Submit an intake form at least two weeks in advance. Full payment is due within 5 days of your program, payable by cash, check, or credit card (a 2.99% fee applies).
  • Groups of 11+ require additional chaperones. If plans change, we will attempt to accommodate rescheduling based on availability; check for rain/snow dates.
  • Some programs may have alternate rain/snow dates. Please check with our staff for coordination.
  • Programs and Field Trips: A full refund will be issued with a 48-hour notice. A full refund will be issued if Shaw Institute cancels a program due to low enrollment or unforeseen circumstances.
  • Fewer than 24 hours’ notice or no-show: The full cost of the program will be charged, and no refund will be issued.

Shaw Institute reserves the right to use participant photographs to promote programs unless otherwise notified in writing.

Some programs are held in the basement, accessible only by stairs; please notify us in advance for accommodations. Students requiring individualized physical, developmental, or behavioral support must have arrangements organized by their school or family prior to the program.

For any questions regarding accommodations, please contact us at info@shawinstitute.org or 207-374-2135.