School Programs
Book now for 2026 Fall programs!
Mission
The mission of our K – 12 educational programs is to provide transformational experiences outside of the classroom. Each program is aligned with NYS Next Generation Learning Standards, and is designed to enhance STEAM learning through hands-on activities and outdoor exploration.
Registration
School programs are available throughout the year, and can be virtual or on site.
To book a program, please use the registration form here. An Environmental Educator will email you to schedule your program.
We use Zoom as our platform for virtual field trips. If you have any questions or technological inquires please contact our education team at jbenc@parks.ny.gov.
Information
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Our programs are available to book between 9:00am-4:00pm.
Mondays & Fridays: Max 3 classes
Tuesdays through Thursdays: Max 4 classes
On-site programs run for one and a half hours long. This does not include time for disembarking buses and eating snacks/lunch. Please arrange to be at our Center for at least 2 hours.
Virtual programs are about 45 minutes long with an additional 15 minutes Q&A, via Zoom.
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We charge based on the total amount of participants visiting per day.
10-20 participants: $75
21-30 participants: $125
31-40 participants: $175
41-50 participants: $225
51-60 participants: $275
Program cost is payable by check to “NY State Parks.” Mail your check and signed permit to:
Jones Beach State Park
Attn: Programs, Jones Beach Energy & Nature Center
3300 Park Avenue Unit #1000
Wantagh, New York 11793
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Bus Permit: $35 per bus
In order to get a bus permit, at least 2 weeks prior to program date, you must mail your:
-Signed program permit-Payment/ PO/ plan for payment (can pay in person day of)
-and a self-addressed envelope with stamp to
3300 Park Avenue, Unit #1000,
Wantagh NY 11793
You may pay via check, credit card, or cash in advance or the day of the program. We will also accept proof of a purchase order being submitted in lieu of prior payment. Payment must reflect the price listed on the program permit. A plan for payment must be communicated to us prior to us issuing a bus permit. Once we receive your information in the mail, we will issue you and mail you the bus permit that must be shown to the toll booth to enter the park.
If we do not receive your program permit and plan for payment, you will need to pay $35 per bus fee at the toll booth to enter the park.
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Field trips are rain-or-shine. Outdoor field trips will only be transitioned to indoor programs for inclement weather impacting the safety of participants and staff.
Weather conditions warranting transition of outdoors program to indoors are heavy rain, lightning, high winds, sleet, temperatures above 100° Fahrenheit or below -15° Fahrenheit.
Light rain will not warrant transition of outdoor programs to indoors. Participants should come prepared and dressed appropriately for field trips.
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Transportation costs can be reimbursed in full through a grant program called Connect Kids. This program reimburses school districts, charter schools, municipalities, and select not-for-profits in New York State for travel costs associated with student field trips to eligible parks and historic sites.