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Surf Skate Science

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Oakland Park, Florida
Exact location provided upon booking.
Recommended Ages
Curriculum designed for grades 3rd and up but available to younger students with their parents help

K-12

Surf Skate Science is an award winning, K-12 South Florida co-op that turns local beaches and skateparks into hands on classrooms where students learn science, technology, engineering, art and math. We also offer online learning, mailable kits, career exposure field experiences and now have a headquarters for after school and events. Founded in 2018, we now serve over 2500 a year and are expanding through our Powered by Surf Skate Science licensing program. Surf Skate Science is on a mission to ignite students passions, grow their confidence and teach critical 21st century skill that will take kids way beyond board riding to become the world changers of the future.

Features
Advanced LearnerAuditoryDay ProgramExperiential

Surf Skate Science is for kids who are naturally curious, hands-on learners, and energized by movement and discovery. Our students thrive when learning isn’t confined to a desk—they want to do, build, test, and create. They’re the ones who ask big “what if” questions, light up during experiments, and come alive when learning is tied to something they love—like surfing, skateboarding, design, or the outdoors.

Families who love our program are often seeking something different from traditional education. They value creativity, resilience, and real-world problem solving just as much as academic knowledge. Many are homeschoolers, microschoolers, or families looking to supplement traditional schooling with experiences that spark joy and fuel purpose. They appreciate that Surf Skate Science combines rigorous STEAM learning with adventure, community, and mentorship.

Kids who thrive with us range from budding scientists and engineers to artists, athletes, and dreamers. What unites them is not one learning style, but a shared excitement for exploring how science and creativity connect to the world around them.

Pros

Families tell us over and over that Surf Skate Science is a game-changer. They love that their kids can’t wait for class each week—it feels more like an adventure than “school.” Students get to run, skate, surf, build, and explore while secretly soaking up science, math, and engineering in ways that stick.

Parents especially value:
• Engagement: Kids who were once bored or frustrated by traditional learning suddenly light up when lessons connect to their passions.
• Real-World Learning: Beaches, skateparks, and community spaces become the classroom, making science and engineering feel alive and relevant.
• Confidence & Resilience: Through falls, fails, and breakthroughs, students learn to persevere—skills that carry far beyond skating or surfing.
• Community: Families love being part of a welcoming, supportive network where kids feel seen, encouraged, and celebrated.
• Future Pathways: Exposure to professionals in science, design, engineering, and action sports helps kids imagine exciting careers they might never have considered.

At the end of the day, families love that Surf Skate Science is fun with a purpose. Kids are building 21st-century skills, strengthening their curiosity, and discovering that learning really can be awesome. "

Cons

While most families love Surf Skate Science, we know our program isn’t without challenges. Because we are an outdoor, movement-based program, we’re subject to the realities of South Florida weather—heat, rain, and sudden storms can sometimes disrupt or reschedule classes. While we always do our best to adapt with make-up sessions, some families find the unpredictability difficult.

Other areas families sometimes mention:
• Parent Involvement: Our co-op style means parents are expected to play a role in supervision and support. This is a strength for many families who want to be involved, but for those seeking a full drop-off model, it can feel like more responsibility.
• Untraditional Structure: Our lessons don’t look like a traditional classroom. Some families who prefer highly structured, quiet, textbook-based learning find our active, project-driven style challenging.
• Group Dynamics: Because much of our learning happens through teamwork and collaboration, kids who strongly resist group activities may struggle at first.

We’re continually working to improve by adding more flexible options, like our Online Learning Program, and by strengthening communication with families about weather plans and expectations.

Transparency matters to us—our goal is to set families up for success and ensure kids who join our program thrive in it.

FES-UA and PEP Florida School Choice direct biller

Program costs vary per activity with 14 week sessions $500 or less.

Surf Skate Science
$0.00 USD

Our mission

Surf Skate Science exists to transform beaches, skateparks, and community spaces into living science labs where kids discover that learning is exciting, hands-on, and deeply connected to the real world. Unlike traditional programs, we use the energy of action sports to spark curiosity and fuel creativity while building 21st-century skills like resilience, problem-solving, and innovation. What inspires us each day is seeing students who once felt disconnected from school light up with purpose, realizing they have the power to design, create, and change their world for the better.

Our story

Surf Skate Science was born out of our family’s own struggles with traditional education. Uli, our co-founder, had a hard time in school until math finally clicked when he began building skate ramps, and later our boys faced similar challenges in rigid classroom settings. We discovered that when learning became hands-on, connected to their passions, and rooted in real-world experiences, everything changed—confidence grew, curiosity exploded, and education became meaningful. What started with just a few kids at the skatepark has now grown into programs serving thousands of students each year, fueled by grants, media recognition, and the belief that every child deserves to learn in a way that lights them up.

Surf Skate Science Demo Video

Get an inside look at Surf Skate Science

FAQ: Additional Details about Surf Skate Science

Imagine pulling up to the skatepark on a sunny morning. You hear the clack-clack of skateboard wheels rolling over concrete and the laughter of kids greeting their friends. The salty breeze from the ocean mixes with the smell of sunscreen and the faint squeak of sneakers on ramps.

Your child joins their group, starting with a quick icebreaker. They’re handed a skateboard truck and a small scale—today’s lesson is on forces and balance. As they weigh the parts, you can see their hands tracing the curves of the metal, comparing sizes and measurements with classmates. They record observations, their pencils scratching across clipboards, before gathering to test how trucks of different weights affect turning radius.

Next, the group rolls out to the ramps. The instructor explains momentum and friction—your child leans forward, eyes wide, watching a demonstration. Soon they’re taking turns, skating down a ramp, feeling the push and pull of physics in their own bodies. When they fall, they laugh, brush off, and try again, encouraged by peers shouting, “You got this!”

The class ends under the shade of a pavilion. Kids sketch the parts of a skateboard in their notebooks, comparing drawings and sharing discoveries. There’s a hum of chatter, the thud of boards against the ground, and the spark of new ideas—your child excitedly telling you about the “science experiment” they just skated through.

That’s Surf Skate Science: learning you can see, hear, feel, and even taste in the salty air. It’s not just class—it’s an experience that sticks.

Surf Skate Science is designed to be a hands-on, project-based supplement to your homeschool program. Instead of sitting at desks, students meet us at local skateparks, beaches, and community spaces—our real-world “labs.” Each session blends movement, science, and creativity so kids learn by doing.

Here’s what it looks like in practice:
• Weekly Sessions: Families sign up for a weekly 90-minute class (or more, depending on the program). Each week has a theme—like the physics of skateboarding, the science of waves, or marine biology in action.
• Hands-On Projects: Students dive into experiments, design challenges, and field investigations. One week they may be building custom skateboard shapes to explore geometry, another week they might be testing water quality at the beach.
• Co-Op Style: Parents are part of the experience. You don’t need to teach, but your presence supports safety and community. Many families see it as a bonus to share in their child’s learning.
• Integration with Homeschooling: Surf Skate Science lessons naturally cover core STEAM subjects (science, technology, engineering, art, math), while also building 21st-century skills like problem-solving, teamwork, and creativity. Families often use our sessions as their main science curriculum or to enrich what they’re already doing at home.
• Assessment: Instead of tests, students demonstrate learning through projects, presentations, and reflection—what we call Revelatory Assessment.

For families who want more flexibility, our Online Learning Program mirrors the in-person experience with video lessons, virtual labs, and creative projects kids can complete at home. This makes it easy to integrate Surf Skate Science into your homeschool rhythm, whether you’re on the go, juggling multiple ages, or needing a weather-proof option.

Surf Skate Science is a co-op style program, which means parents and caregivers are part of the experience—but not in the role of the teacher. Our team of instructors leads the lessons, designs the labs, and provides the expertise. Parents are there to help with supervision, cheer on their kids, and ensure a safe, supportive environment.

No subject-area knowledge is required. You don’t need to know the physics of a kickflip or the science of waves—that’s what we’re here for. What parents bring is their presence: helping spot at the skatepark, handing out materials, or simply being part of the learning community. Many families find this time together strengthens relationships, because they’re not just watching learning happen—they’re sharing it.

For those using our Online Learning Program, parent involvement looks a little different. Kids can complete lessons independently, but we encourage caregivers to sit alongside them occasionally—ask questions, join in the activities, and celebrate discoveries. Even small gestures, like talking about what they learned over dinner, help reinforce the experience and spark deeper curiosity.

In short, parents don’t have to be the teachers. They just get to be teammates in their child’s adventure of learning.

None

Yes—our program is a great fit for kids with ADHD. Surfing and skateboarding naturally engage focus, movement, and creativity, making it easier for these learners to stay present and excited. Many skaters and surfers already show the same energy and curiosity often associated with ADHD—so instead of being a challenge, it often feels like a natural match for our hands-on, active learning style.

We’ve found that many autistic children thrive in our active, hands-on environment. The movement, clear routines, and real-world projects help them stay engaged, while our small class sizes and parent support create the structure they need to succeed.

Yes—our program is a strong fit for children with dyslexia and other reading challenges. Because our lessons are hands-on, movement-based, and highly visual, students can fully engage and demonstrate learning without relying heavily on reading. This approach helps build confidence while keeping curiosity and creativity at the center.

Absolutely—Surf Skate Science is a strong fit for gifted, twice-exceptional, and profoundly gifted learners. Because our projects are open-ended, students are free to dive as deeply as they’d like into a topic. A child interested in skateboard design, for example, might not only shape a board but also research materials science, test prototypes, and present findings like a true engineer.

Our flexible, curiosity-driven approach ensures that advanced learners are never held back by a rigid curriculum. Instead, they’re encouraged to stretch their creativity, ask complex questions, and pursue challenges at their own pace—all while building resilience, collaboration skills, and real-world problem-solving experience.

Yes—Surf Skate Science can be a great fit for twice-exceptional (2e) learners. Our hands-on, movement-based approach allows gifted students to explore at a deeper level while also providing the flexibility and support needed for learning differences. Because every child is unique, we partner with families to create the right balance of challenge and support, guided by the same policies we use for neurodivergent students.

Absolutely—Surf Skate Science is a strong fit for gifted, twice-exceptional, and profoundly gifted learners. Because our projects are open-ended, students are free to dive as deeply as they’d like into a topic. A child interested in skateboard design, for example, might not only shape a board but also research materials science, test prototypes, and present findings like a true engineer.

Our flexible, curiosity-driven approach ensures that advanced learners are never held back by a rigid curriculum. Instead, they’re encouraged to stretch their creativity, ask complex questions, and pursue challenges at their own pace—all while building resilience, collaboration skills, and real-world problem-solving experience.

Yes—our program is a great fit for kids with ADHD. Surfing and skateboarding naturally engage focus, movement, and creativity, making it easier for these learners to stay present and excited. Many skaters and surfers already show the same energy and curiosity often associated with ADHD—so instead of being a challenge, it often feels like a natural match for our hands-on, active learning style.

We’ve found that many autistic children thrive in our active, hands-on environment. The movement, clear routines, and real-world projects help them stay engaged, while our small class sizes and parent support create the structure they need to succeed.

Yes—our program is a strong fit for children with dyslexia and other reading challenges. Because our lessons are hands-on, movement-based, and highly visual, students can fully engage and demonstrate learning without relying heavily on reading. This approach helps build confidence while keeping curiosity and creativity at the center.

Yes—our hands-on approach works well for students with dysgraphia. Because learning is centered on movement, building, and creative projects rather than heavy writing, students can demonstrate understanding in multiple ways. We’ve seen students with dysgraphia thrive when given the freedom to sketch, build, or explain ideas verbally instead of relying solely on written work.

Oakland Park, Florida

20-25

At Surf Skate Science, we believe learning happens best in a safe, supportive, and respectful environment. Because our classrooms are beaches, skateparks, and community spaces, we ask families and students to help us create a culture of kindness, safety, and curiosity.

Our expectations are simple:
• Respect Each Other: Encourage, don’t criticize. Celebrate effort and creativity, even when things don’t go perfectly.
• Respect the Space: Take care of the parks, beaches, and equipment we use. Leave spaces better than we found them.
• Stay Safe: Follow safety guidelines, wear required gear, and look out for one another.
• Be Engaged: Bring curiosity, a willingness to try, and an open mind to every session.
• Support the Community: Parents play an important role in supervision and creating a positive atmosphere for all kids.

These guidelines aren’t about rules for the sake of rules—they’re about protecting the joy of learning together. When families and students commit to this shared culture, Surf Skate Science becomes more than a class—it becomes a community.

We understand that plans can change, and we want to be as fair as possible while also keeping our programs sustainable. Our refund policy is as follows:
• 90% refund if you cancel 4 or more weeks before the semester begins
• 50% refund if you cancel 2–4 weeks before the semester begins
• 25% refund if you cancel 0–2 weeks before the semester begins
• No refunds are available once the first class has started

Important Note: If payment for your program has already been submitted through Step Up for Students for direct payment, we are unable to issue refunds due to funding rules.

This policy allows us to reserve your child’s spot, plan materials, and fairly manage program costs while keeping flexibility for families.

Surf Skate Science isn’t the best fit for every learner—and that’s okay. Our program is highly interactive, outdoors, and movement-based. Kids who prefer quiet, seated learning in a structured classroom setting may not enjoy the untraditional, hands-on environment we create.

Because we spend a lot of time at skateparks, beaches, and community spaces, students need to be comfortable with a little noise, weather, and unpredictability. Those who resist group collaboration, shy away from active learning, or are looking for a more rigid, textbook-style program may find our approach frustrating.

We also ask families to engage—whether that means supporting at the park, helping with safety, or embracing the idea that learning looks different here. Families wanting a “drop-off only” program with minimal involvement or a one-size-fits-all curriculum may not find us to be the right match.

Our goal is to create a safe, encouraging, and adventurous community for kids who thrive when science, creativity, and play collide. If your child loves movement, curiosity, and exploration, they’ll feel right at home. If not, we’re happy to recommend other programs that may be a better fit.

If Surf Skate Science doesn’t sound like the right match, that’s okay—every child learns differently, and we want to support families in finding the best fit for their learner.

For families who love our philosophy but prefer more flexibility, we recommend checking out our Surf Skate Science Online Learning Program. It mirrors our in-person experience with virtual labs, video lessons, and creative projects students can complete at home—at their own pace and on their own schedule. It’s a great option for kids who may not enjoy large groups, who thrive in a quieter environment, or for families who need something less parent-involved day to day.

Our heart is to see every child excited about learning, even if it’s not through us.

Surf Skate Science is expanding in exciting ways! This year we’re opening our new STEAM Headquarters—a hub with labs, maker spaces, and creative workshops designed to bring hands-on learning to life.

We’re also developing mailable learning kits so families anywhere can experience Surf Skate Science from home, complete with materials and guided activities that capture the energy of our skatepark and beach labs.

In addition, our Powered by Surf Skate Science™ initiative allows select partners to use our curriculum and approach in their own communities, bringing action sports and STEAM to even more kids nationwide.

Our programs are in high demand and often sell out within minutes of registration opening! To make sure your family doesn’t miss out, we recommend signing up for our email list at SurfSkateScience.com. You’ll be the first to know when new semesters, field experiences, and special events open for registration.

Contact form

Meet Ulises and Toni Frallicciardi

Surf Skate Science was founded by Toni and Ulises “Uli” Frallicciardi, parents of three children who experienced a mix of homeschooling and traditional schooling. Toni’s background in Ocean Engineering and Uli’s experience as a youth leader and professional skatepark builder uniquely positioned them to design a program that blends action sports with real-world science. Their own kids’ struggles in traditional classrooms fueled their passion to create hands-on, curiosity-driven learning that engages students of all kinds. A fun fact: when they’re not teaching, you’ll often find them in the water or at the skatepark with their family, still testing out new ways to make science fun.

Modulo's expert opinion

Our learning specialists give their honest evaluation
ManishaCEO and Founder of Modulo

I’ve seen Surf-Skate-Science ignite a love of STEM through movement and real-world connection that no textbook can match.