Teen Conservation Leaders

Teen Conservation Leaders (TCL) is a summer service-learning program at the Monterey Bay Aquarium in Monterey, California, for high school students who want to support ocean conservation. Teens in the program build career and life skills, gain self-confidence, and earn community service hours. Each summer starts with a training week where new and returning participants get to know one another and learn the basics of marine biology and ocean conservation. Applicants choose among three tracks. The Guest Track focuses on talking with visitors and sharing Aquarium animals and stories. The Animal Care & Engineering Track has teens caring for near-shore invertebrates and designing practical solutions for animals and staff. The Science Communication Track has teens creating photos, videos, and social media content about conservation for a teen audience. Participants volunteer 3 to 4 days per week as assigned. The 2026 program ran from June 8 to August 2, with mandatory training in June.

Entering 9th, 10th, 11th or 12th grade in fall 2026 and at least 14 years old by June 8, 2026. Applicants should be eager to learn and to work with people of all ages and backgrounds. Participants must be available for every listed program date, including the mandatory June training. In-person interviews were held by invitation in March.