I am an elementary school teacher of gifted at a low income school in central Florida. I am desperately trying to find monies or supplies to help setup a saltwater tank in my classroom. I don't feel that I need to explain to you the numerous educational benefits this tank could provide, or the enormous cost it can entail. I have been on reef central trying to find equipment, livestock, etc - however it is still quite expensive. I was wondering with all your knowledge, love of SW tanks and contacts if you knew of a grant or anything that could help me with setting up, stocking or upkeep needed for the class tank in order to enlighten and teach my students.
My position is different than most, as I teach all grade levels (k-5) of high ability/advanced and have the same students year after year (therefore ongoing learning as the tank and students grow). I'm trying to keep this short, as I don't want to bother you or take up too much of your time, that being said I can provide you with any additional information you'd like.
If you do not know of any; any knowledge or suggestions you could pass along would be great. I was hoping to attend MACNA this year with my husband to try to see what is out there and gain more knowledge, but travel expenses and ticket costs were going to be too much. (Things have turned out to be much more expensive than originally budgeted, therefore MACNA will have to wait.
Still think all the expenses will be worth to enrich my students lives and education.) In any case, I really do appreciate your time. Thanks!!
My position is different than most, as I teach all grade levels (k-5) of high ability/advanced and have the same students year after year (therefore ongoing learning as the tank and students grow). I'm trying to keep this short, as I don't want to bother you or take up too much of your time, that being said I can provide you with any additional information you'd like.
If you do not know of any; any knowledge or suggestions you could pass along would be great. I was hoping to attend MACNA this year with my husband to try to see what is out there and gain more knowledge, but travel expenses and ticket costs were going to be too much. (Things have turned out to be much more expensive than originally budgeted, therefore MACNA will have to wait.
Still think all the expenses will be worth to enrich my students lives and education.) In any case, I really do appreciate your time. Thanks!!
So I bought a chiller off Craigslist. I've got a 20 gallon tank with a sump/refrug and a custom built "teaching" stand (thanks to my hubby). ReefersDirect out of St Cloud is building me led lights for the tank (so chiller is tied for most $ - those alone were my entire budget! Ha!) 
