"Ocean Literacy" is a set of fundamental ideas, widely accepted by the ocean education community as the most important ideas each of us should understand and that should guide our actions. The seven basic principles are:

• Ocean Literacy Principle #1:
  The Earth has one big ocean with many features.
• Ocean Literacy Principle #2:
  The ocean and life in the ocean shape the features of Earth.
• Ocean Literacy Principle #3:
  The ocean is a major influence on weather and climate.
• Ocean Literacy Principle #4:
  The ocean makes the Earth habitable.
• Ocean Literacy Principle #5:
  The ocean supports a great diversity of life and ecosystems.
• Ocean Literacy Principle #6:
  The ocean and humans are inextricably interconnected.
• Ocean Literacy Principle #7:
  The ocean is largely unexplored.

The 2011 Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary Final Management Plan makes education and outreach a critical mission for the sanctuary. We can accomplish our objectives by tailoring important ocean messages to specific audiences including K-12 students, students in colleges and universities, visitors and community members.

Workshops improve teachers' confidence and expertise.

For K-12 students and teachers, Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary is like a textbook. The sanctuary holds lessons in science, social studies, literature and other areas of knowledge important for growing minds - and tomorrow's citizens. We support teachers by offering resources and training workshops and offering the best of NOAA science resources.

Hands-on projects teach science skills and motivate students to enjoy learning.

Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary is the host office for Pacific Northwest Bay-Watershed Education and Training (B-WET) Grants. Learn more about how NOAA provides funding for students and teachers for hands-on, inquiry-based outdoor learning.

Today's college and universities recognize the importance of solid preparation for students entering science, law, environmental studies, marine policy and other career tracks. Browse our Higher Education pages for information about internships and other adult education opportunities.

Visitors to the Olympic Coast have many opportunities to learn and experience the sanctuary. Browse our Visitor Information pages to find a learning adventure suited to your curiosity and favorite recreation.

Community events bring sanctuary staff and the public together.

Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary regularly conducts Community Outreach and Education events and programs throughout the region.

For more information on Ocean Literacy Principles and how they fit with national science education standards, see: the Ocean Literacy web site.