Waquoit Bay Summer Science School

Summer Science School

Please join our e-newsletter email list and select “Reserve Newsletter” to receive information about upcoming programs, science school information and community events.

A series of week-long learning adventures introduces kids and teens to coastal ecology while having fun and fostering new friendships.

To register your child, please click on the session dates below, fill out the online registration, and complete payment.

In addition to online registration, please print and email or mail the Immunization and Medical & Emergency Contact forms.  Registrations will only be considered complete upon receipt of forms. 

Email to:
waquoitbayscienceschool@gmail.com

Mail to:
Waquoit Bay Reserve Foundation
Attn: Science School
P.O. Box 3522, Waquoit, MA 02536

Scholarships – To apply for full or partial scholarships please fill out the application.

To be placed on a waitlist for any “full sessions” please email: waquoitbayscienceschool@gmail.com

Bayside Buddies

Half-day sessions for students entering grades 2-3 in the fall of 2023

REGISTER: July 24 – 28, 2023 – Morning Session (9:00am – 12:00pm) 

REGISTER: July 24 – 28, 2023 – Afternoon Session (1:00pm – 4:00pm) 

REGISTER: August 7 – 11, 2023 – Morning Session (9:00am – 12:00pm)

Cost: $200.00
Children will get wet, muddy, and inspired through games, crafts, and basic scientific investigations.  They explore nature in various habitats around Waquoit Bay including forest, field, and marshes. The students will study wildlife from crabs in the bay to osprey on our nesting platform, starting their journey to become estuary stewards.

Estuary Adventures

Full-day sessions for students entering grades 4-6 in the fall of 2023

REGISTER: Session One – July 10 – 14, 2023 (9:00am – 3:00pm) 

REGISTER: Session Two – July 17 – 21, 2023 (9:00am – 3:00pm)

Cost: $375
Young scientists will conduct hands-on investigations based on research projects at the Reserve from water quality of the bay to wildlife observations. They will learn to use a variety of instruments to help with their discoveries and play games relating ideas. Students will wade into the marshes to find estuary creatures and learn about the wildlife around Waquoit Bay.

STEM Curriculum

STEAM Adventures

Full-day session for students entering grades 6-8 in the fall of 2023

REGISTER: August 14 – 18, 2023 (9:00am – 3:00pm) (session full)

Cost: $375
Students will design and create exciting projects using the engineering design process in the classroom lab and outside. They will draw on science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM) skills to build, test, and redesign their projects, which will be based on real-life problems and challenges. They will learn about renewable energy and play interactive games and water activities will keep the interest level high and the kids cooled down.

Waquoit Bay Reserve’s Education Programs

Women in Science

Full-day sessions for students entering grades 7-9 in the fall of 2023

REGISTER: July 31 – August 4, 2023 (9:00am – 3:00pm)

Cost: $375
Students will receive inspiration and support as they meet women scientists who will describe their career paths and projects. They will conduct field research alongside Waquoit Bay staff and visiting scientists using a variety of instruments and technologies to gather and record data from the habitats at Waquoit Bay Reserve. This hands-on session is sure to provide plenty of fun, build confidence, and offer a look at potential careers in science, technology, and engineering.

TIDAL Quest: Teens Investigating Diversity of Aquatic Life

Full-day session for students entering grades 9-12 in the fall of 2023

REGISTER: August 7 – 11, 2023 (9:00am – 3:00pm) 

Cost: $375
Do you love science, technology, and figuring out how things work? Join a small team of students spending a week in the field while conducting environmental monitoring projects with Waquoit Bay Reserve scientists. Students will discover the latest technologies used locally to study climate change and sea level rise, monitor wildlife, examine plant communities, and look for ways to solve environmental issues while socializing with other teens and developing questions to investigate. Participation in this session may help determine a career path or boost a college application.

To hear an audio clip of Waquoit Bay History and teens exploring the estuary click here. Narrated by Pam Briscoe, Waquoit resident, featured speaker Jim Rassman, Stewardship Coordinator, Waquoit Bay NERR and Science School Instructor, Gil Newton

For more information or questions, please email: waquoitbayscienceschool@gmail.com (during the winter months, this email is not monitored on a regular basis, but we will respond as we are able – thank you.)

Payment – online payment through PayPal preferred.

Cancellation Policy – Refunds will only be made if we are able to fill your child’s spot less a $25.00 administrative fee.