UF CPET & Florida Museum's Collections Collaborate for PK Yonge, with the Collections being opened to the public for the first time in 20 Years 

The UF Center for Pre-collegiate Education and Training; In collaboration with the @floridamuseum and the generosity of Jimmy Horner; we were able to facilitate the entire 6th grade class @pkyongebluewave returning to Norman hall for a STEM enriched day! These future scientists were able to learn and practice lab skill techniques and see the Florida Museum Collection Archives (a first in over 20 Years!)

Students were warmly welcomed to the site of the original PK Yonge School and embarked on a captivating tour of the museum’s extensive collections. After lunch, they engaged in three exciting skill stations, delving into the fascinating worlds of herpetology, microscopy, and pipetting, which provided them with hands-on experience in learning about these scientific disciplines.

Here is a quote from Dr. Hazel Levy, the Associate Director of CPET, who coordinated the event:

“The goal of this initiative is to inspire middle school students through hands-on interaction with real scientific collections, encouraging their curiosity and passion for learning,” said Hazel Levy, the associate director of UF CPET who helped organize the tours in coordination with the museum. “We hope that by participating in this experience, students not only gain knowledge about natural history and scientific inquiry but also develop a deeper appreciation for the interdisciplinary nature of UF’s research efforts.”

You can read more about it here:

https://www.floridamuseum.ufl.edu/pressroom/2025/07/08/dickinson-hall-tour/

Learn more about how to schedule trips like this for your school here: Field Trips and Outreach!

Photo Pics were from @floridamuseum and @ufcpet