The 13‑week Archaeology Field School at the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse Outstanding Natural Area officially began this week! Hosted by the Florida Public Archaeology Network’s Southeast/Southwest Region and the Bureau of Land Management, this free program offers students an alternative to the traditional six‑week summer field school and is the first RPA Certified Field School to be showcased. Over the next 13 weeks, students will spend one day per week gaining experience in terrestrial excavation, underwater survey methods, laboratory analysis, report writing, archaeological technology, and public archaeology. The site, Jupiter Midden #2 (8PB35), spans more than 6,000 years of human activity and is now threatened by climate‑driven shoreline erosion. Students will help document the condition of the midden, investigate offshore components, and examine a recently uncovered brick foundation that may be linked to an 1888 kitchen structure. In addition to fieldwork, students will work in an on‑site classroom analyzing artifacts and drafting the archaeological report, experiencing every stage of the research process from project design to completion. Because the program is operated by FPAN, students will also practice science communication by engaging with visitors and sharing the importance of cultural resource stewardship at this highly visited site. A unique opportunity for students to gain practical experience, contribute to ongoing research, and develop essential communication skills.

Find out more at: https://www.fpan.us/projects/fieldschool/