Abstract: Public outreach and education are an important component for an effective Integrated Mosquito Management program. Teaching children effective mosquito prevention can instill habits and behaviors to last them a lifetime. In 2018, the Collier Mosquito Control District added a Public Outreach Specialist to design and implement a school-based mosquito education program from the ground up. Without an education degree or formal teaching background, but brimming with extensive knowledge about mosquitoes, where would she start? This presentation provides information and tips on how non-educators can create a standards-based education program, who might be willing to assist in the process, how to work with school districts to get into the classrooms, and how to expand the program beyond classroom visits.
