Whitney Docent Program

Whitney Lab has a great volunteer docent program. Docents are trained to teach in the Lab's outreach programs.

Whitney Laboratory docents are enthusiastic volunteers dedicated to promoting an understanding of science among school children. Docents come from all walks of life and all levels of experience and need not have a science or marine-related background. They receive training from Whitney Lab scientists and play a major role in shaping their own area of interest. Because training is time-consuming and expensive, it is hoped that new members will stay with the program for at least two years.

A Day at the Whitney Lab is for students in grades 4 through 6 and offers an opportunity for students to visit the Whitney Laboratory and learn about some of the animals, equipment, and experimental approaches used here in studies of marine animals and to develop critical thinking skills.

Learn more and see photos of a typical Day at the Whitney Lab

The Traveling Zoo is designed for students in grades K through 3. Docents transport marine animals to schools and present programs that permit the youngsters to see, touch, and learn.

Are you interested?

You can be a part of this lively group of teaching volunteers. Contact Brenda Cannaliato at brenda@whitney.ufl.edu (904-461-4014) at the Whitney Lab for more information.

Docent Resources

You can view and download the docent training manual. You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader to view this file. If you do not have Acrobat on your computer, click here to download a free copy of Acrobat Reader.