Harbor seals are the most common species of seal found in the waters off New England.

Teachers and School Groups

Visit our living classroom or let us bring the Aquarium to you! At Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration, we take learning to another level, making the joys of discovering our underwater world easy and fun for students and teachers alike. With a diverse range of age-specific educational programs and engaging tours, we welcome students of all ages to discover and learn about the wonders of our ocean planet.

Find out how you can become a partner in motivating and educating a new generation of students about the ocean, science, and the wonders of the undersea world.

Professional Development for Teachers:
The Education Department offers a variety of professional development workshops for teachers year round.  Many of these programs are appropriate for teachers of all grade levels.

On-Site Classes and Presentations:
Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration’s extensive classes and programs create an experience that fosters an understanding of the ocean and its inhabitants. Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration provides distinctive educational opportunities for all ages, from pre-kindergarten through adult. For schoolchildren, the classes supplement Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration’s visit and school science curricula, and their teachers benefit from Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration staff development programs. Education programs are both formal and informal and some offer academic credit through the University of Connecticut. Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration member programs include marine science classes, day and weekend excursions, and family events.

Traveling Teachers: 
Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration’s teachers travel to schools within a 75-mile radius of  Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration and present curriculum materials that feature the habitats displayed at the Aquarium. For example, an elementary school curriculum showcasing the Rocky Shores of the Long Island Sound, teaches children to recognize the adaptations animals and plants have developed to survive the stresses of this type of habitat. Snails, lobsters, mussels, barnacles, sea stars and hermit crabs are available for students to touch and examine, while riddles, games, and simple lab experiments reinforce basic concepts. 

Tailored Topics and Multi-part programs:
Looking for a class on a specific topic not listed here?  The Education Department at Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration will tailor a program to meet the needs of any group.  Give us a call, we will be happy to work with you to create the best educational experience for your group. 

Looking for a more in-depth experience than just one class?  Let the Education Department create an engaging multi-part program to meet your specific curriculum needs.  Programs can take place at the Aquarium, at your school or on the coast.