Good news for homeschoolers! The IMAG History & Science Center IMAG in Fort Myers and the STEMLab at Miramar Outlets, Estero, both offer opportunities for students to take part in STEM learning through homeschool classes. 

“Students learn about a variety of topics ranging from science, technology, and engineering to math, history, and the arts,” explains IMAG’s Marketing Manager, Richard B. Smith  

Other class topics include biology, chemistry, electricity, astronomy, physics, weather, space science, technology, geology, maker education, FabLab courses, and more.  Previous classes included topics such as marine plants, math in nature, art in nature, and ancient language and storytelling. 

Photo courtesy of IMAG History & Science Center

“The classes are taught by professional museum educators who inspire and engage our students while providing personal care to meet each student’s needs in exciting, supportive, and fun environments,” explains Smith.  STEM classes encourage children to think critically, they reinforce the idea that school is exciting, and help children make connections between core subjects.  

The home school classes are open to students ages five to 9 and 10 to 14. Class sizes range from a minimum of 5 students to no more than 15 students.  Classes take place on Mondays from 10 am to 12 pm.  The IMAG website lists classes in advance for student registration and registration is available online. Home school programs are $15 for IMAG member student participants or $24 for non-members. One adult per family must accompany student(s) in the classroom & is included with registration. Space is limited and classes fill quickly.  

The IMAG offers interactive, hands-on experiences in an informal learning environment. Visitors can enjoy a living lab with live animals, a 3200-gallon aquarium with tropical fish, IMAG Live! with exciting shows performed twice daily, an outdoor lagoon, a sea-to-see touch tank, a 3D theater, and so much more. A gift shop and the Snack House Café (available for those with paid admission) are on the premises. It’s a great place to bring kids of all ages!   

Plan Your Visit: 

• IMAG History & Science Center, 2000 Cranford Ave., Fort Myers, 239-243-0043, theimag.org. 

• Miromar Outlets, 10801 Corkscrew Road, Estero, 239-467-4130, Miromaroutlets.com