School Programs

 The CSE’s School Programs are designed to challenge and inspire elementary (K-5) students’ science learning through hands-on, inquiry-based activities. All school programs are approximately one hour in length and target Sunshine State Standards for science at each elementary grade level. Together, programs, live demonstrations and exhibits enhance classroom instruction. They support state and national benchmarks. They provide hands-on learning experiences and inspire future scientists.

Field Trips are limited to teachers from schools located within the Greater Boca Raton Beach & Park District and/or Boca Raton city limits.

How to register for a field trip

  • To begin the process of scheduling a school trip, complete the School Program Reservation Request Form .
  • Reservation Request Forms may be emailed to explorium@ci.boca-raton.fl.us, faxed to 561-347-3910, or mailed to:
    Science Center Educator
    Children's Science Explorium
    300 South Military Trail
    Boca Raton, FL 33486
  • Within one week of submitting your Reservation Request Form, you will be contacted. If not, please call 347-3909.
  • Approximately 2-4 weeks before your scheduled field trip, you will receive pre-visit materials to prepare your students for their visit. You will also receive a confirmation, bus pass to enter Sugar Sand Park and chaperone tips. *NOTE:  All bus passes must be displayed in the front windshield. Failure to bring your bus pass may result in delaying your entrance and reduce time for your program.

What to expect on your field trip

  • Programs: The Explorium classroom accommodates a total of 25 people, including teachers and chaperones. It is recommended that you arrive 15 minutes prior to the program start time to unload the bus and for a brief orientation. If you are going to arrive late, please inform us by calling 561-347-3900.

Programs begin promptly at 10:00 am. When inclement weather prohibits an outdoor program, an alternate program will be substituted based on availability. The programs will conclude at approximately 12:00; at which time you will be free to have lunch, ride the carousel and visit the Science Playground.

  • Exhibits: An exciting part of your visit is exploring the Exhibit Hall. Our permanent and traveling exhibits feature hands-on, interactive exhibits designed to challenge visitors’ thinking and promote an understanding of everyday science. A brief orientation will precede the exploration of the museum. Challenge worksheets about current exhibits are available for students.

*NOTE: The traveling exhibit hall will be closed during change-over (refer to the School Program Guide for specific dates). During these weeks staff will provide alternative activities, such as guided nature tours and live demonstrations, to ensure a superb experience for students and teachers.

  • Chaperones: RECOMMENDED: One Chaperone per seven students

Teachers and chaperones are responsible for all of their students and are expected to be involved in the program. It is recommended that chaperones NOT bring other children as it takes the focus away from helping to monitor the students. Staff reserves the right to ask any group to leave due to disorderly and inappropriate behavior. Download our Chaperone Survival Guide .

  • Science Playground: The Science Playground is a unique three-level facility featuring many interactive components. A limited water area is available. Students are advised to bring a towel and a change of clothes if they plan on getting wet. Should you decide students are NOT allowed in this area, you have the option of avoiding it upon entering the playground. Chaperones MUST distribute themselves around the playground to supervise and oversee students’ behavior and activities.
  • Carousel: Upon arriving, you will receive a carousel voucher that will give your group one free ride on the carousel. Students are expected to follow all riding guidelines and requests from the carousel operator.
  • Lunch: The Classroom Patio or Family Pavilion, adjacent to the Science Playground, will be reserved for visiting groups to enjoy their lunches. Restrooms and water fountains are located at the Family Pavilion. The Explorium has two large bins to hold bagged lunches. Please have students pack their lunches in airtight containers to keep food dry and away from animals. Students and chaperones are responsible for cleaning up their lunch area after eating. Please do not allow children to feed the animals.

 For more information, see our Field Trip Guide .