COARE Values for the Classroom

Oceans are a major part of our world, yet they are not a major part of science education.

COARE is in the process of developing an ocean-based curriculum to supplement classroom science education, which currently lags behind recent advances in oceanography, climate science, and conservation. With increasing attention on our oceans' various plights, from overfishing to pollution to sea-level rise, COARE aims to provide educators with lesson plans that transform important conservation concepts into accessible, easy-to-use topics and activities.

By illustrating the importance of the oceans and teaching ways to ensure its health in the future, COARE hopes to inspire new generations of ocean stewards. We depend on the ocean for climate regulation, jobs, and recreation. The ocean depends on us, too, for its health and well being; ensuring a safe future begins with education.

Director Jilian Epstien is spearheading this work, drawing on her work in ocean conservation and years of experience teaching biology along California's Central Coast.

Oceans cover roughly 71% of the planet's surface

97% of the planet's water supply is found in oceans

An estimated 50-80% of all life on Earth lives in the ocean

Worldwide, 80% of people live within 60 miles of a coast

1 billion people depend on fish as their primary source of food

Oceans cover roughly 71% of the planet's surface

97% of the planet's water supply is found in oceans

An estimated 50-80% of all life on Earth lives in the ocean

Worldwide, 80% of people live within 60 miles of a coast

1 billion people depend on fish as their primary source of food