Miami, My Garden

Engaging students in science education while tapping into their innate curiosity is a crucial aim for educators. This article presents a collaborative program between a botanical garden and public high school, aimed at engaging students in botany through authentic research experiences. Beginning in 10th grade and continuing through their 12th-grade year, students explore plant diversity, ecological interconnections, and sustainable agriculture through theoretical learning and hands-on experimentation. Under the mentorship of experienced scientists, students progress from acquiring foundational knowledge to eventually conducting independent research projects. The program emphasizes project-based learning, fostering critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and science communication, all important in their development as scientists. The program shows promising outcomes, with students pursuing STEM degrees, participating in national conferences, and returning as alumni as mentors and employees. This collaborative model offers insights for institutions seeking to establish similar partnerships, with ongoing evaluation efforts taking place at our institution.