The Environmental Science and Field Research program meets the needs of students wishing to pursue an academic curriculum with an emphasis on research and environmental studies. Students explore and evaluate the many challenges related to local, regional, and global environments. All students are involved in a learning–through–discovery approach, developing research and thinking skills. Field studies, as well as a variety of current technologies, are utilized throughout the programs. Ecosystem restoration, water–related problems, agricultural awareness, field research, and sustainability in the 21st century are some of the issues students investigate.

Why Environmental Science?

The Environmental Science and Field Research Academy provides a core selection of courses for each grade level; environmental service projects with area agencies, instruction in field study skills, data collection technique and training, environmental outreach, college classes, research project development and implementation, teamwork and leadership training and career information seminars. JERFSA provides extensive opportunities for field-based research, special training in the environmental sciences (ecology, marine biology, conservation management and geology), developing career skills through practical experience, internships, and independent study, and instilling the knowledge and skills to become responsible and productive world citizens. The Jupiter Environmental Research and Field Studies Academy is dedicated to educating students with the knowledge and understanding of leadership in a new, more environmentally responsible era and with field skills that will open doors into a growing field of environmental careers.

Required Courses

• 9th Grade: Environmental Science Honors; Pre-AICE Environmental Management; AICE Marine Science AS
• 10th Grade: Biology Honors; Chemistry Honors; AICE Marine Science A level
• 11th Grade: AICE Environmental Management; Experimental Research 4 Honors
   OR 4 dual enrollment courses (2 per semester, on the JHS campus)
• 12th Grade: 2 dual enrollment courses (1 per semester, on JHS campus)
   OR Advanced Placement Physics 1
   OR Executive Internship

Research

The Jupiter Environmental Research and Field Studies Academy (JERFSA) at Jupiter High has had students accepted to present their research at several local and international professional conferences.  They were the only high school students found worthy of competing among college graduates and undergraduates from around the world.  Students' final evaluations were performed by professionals in the field through a one-on-one questioning segment.

The students ranging from sophomores to seniors conducted independent research projects for over a year with local universities, colleges, governmental organizations, non-governmental organizations, state parks, and national refuges.  They focused on invasives, surface water, groundwater, and drinking water health and the resultant effects on humans and our local environment at large.  Chemical analysis was run at a local BSLII laboratory. Truly a community effort.

JERFSA Students at Professional Conferences

List of Professional Conferences