Terra Environmental Research Institute
TERRA Environmental Research Institute: A Blueprint for Future-Ready Education
Introduction
As society faces unprecedented environmental, scientific, and technological challenges, the need for well-rounded, educated, and innovative young leaders has never been greater. The TERRA Environmental Research Institute, commonly referred to as TERRA, is answering that call. Located in Miami-Dade County, Florida, this forward-thinking magnet high school has quickly earned a reputation for academic excellence, cutting-edge research, and environmental stewardship.
Founded in 2009, TERRA is a public magnet school within the Miami-Dade County Public Schools (MDCPS) system. It has a unique mission—to integrate rigorous academics with a focus on the environment, health sciences, and engineering. TERRA offers students a launchpad into higher education and careers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) while promoting a deep respect for the planet.
This article explores the school’s history, academic offerings, admissions process, student life, and the role TERRA plays in shaping the leaders of tomorrow.
Overview of TERRA Environmental Research Institute
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Established: 2009
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Location: 11005 SW 84th Street, Miami, FL 33173
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Grades Served: 9–12
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School Type: Public Magnet
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Mascot: The Wolves
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School Colors: Green, Blue, Silver
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Enrollment: Approximately 1,000 students
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Principal (2025): Anthony Thomas
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District: Miami-Dade County Public Schools
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Website: terra.dadeschools.net
A Unique Educational Mission: Terra Environmental Research Institute
TERRA’s acronym stands for The Environmental Research and Restoration Academy, reflecting the school’s commitment to preparing students for careers that focus on sustainability, research, health, and innovation. The school’s curriculum integrates traditional learning with real-world problem-solving and environmental education.
TERRA aims to: Terra Environmental Research Institute
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Promote academic excellence through rigorous STEM-based instruction.
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Foster environmental responsibility and sustainability awareness.
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Encourage hands-on research and innovation.
Academic Pathways: Specialized Magnet Academies
What sets TERRA apart from other high schools is its three magnet academies, each offering a specialized focus aligned with future academic and career paths:
1. Biomedical Research Academy
Designed for students passionate about healthcare, life sciences, and medicine, this academy offers:
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Human Anatomy and Physiology
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Genetics and Biotechnology
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Medical Interventions and Bioethics
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Research in Health Sciences
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Advanced Placement (AP) Biology and Chemistry
Students gain exposure to medical careers through internships, lab work, and guest lectures from professionals.
2. Environmental Research and Field Studies Academy
This academy targets students interested in ecology, conservation, and environmental sciences. Courses include:
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Marine Biology
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AP Environmental Science
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Environmental Systems
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Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
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Field Studies and Outdoor Research Labs
Partnerships with national parks and environmental agencies provide students with authentic learning experiences.
3. Engineering and Robotics Academy: Terra Environmental Research Institute
Geared toward aspiring engineers, programmers, and innovators, this academy offers:
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Principles of Engineering
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Civil, Mechanical, and Electrical Engineering
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Robotics and Automation
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Computer-Aided Design (CAD)
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AP Computer Science and Coding
Students participate in robotics competitions, design challenges, and collaborative engineering projects.
Academic Excellence: Terra Environmental Research Institute
TERRA’s curriculum is designed to challenge students and prepare them for postsecondary education. Highlights include:
Advanced Placement (AP) Program
TERRA offers over 20 AP courses such as:
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AP Calculus AB & BC
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AP Statistics
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AP Physics
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AP Psychology
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AP Human Geography
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AP Spanish Language and Literature
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AP U.S. Government & Politics
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AP Computer Science Principles
Dual Enrollment
Students can earn college credits through partnerships with Miami Dade College and Florida International University, enabling them to graduate high school with a head start on their degrees.
Research Capstone
Every senior must complete a Capstone Research Project, combining scientific inquiry with real-world relevance. Topics range from public health issues and green energy to AI-driven environmental modeling.
Facilities and Campus Life: Terra Environmental Research Institute
TERRA's modern campus reflects its commitment to sustainability and innovation. Spread across a beautifully landscaped site, the school includes:
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Advanced science and computer labs
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Engineering and robotics studios
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Organic gardens and greenhouses
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LEED-certified buildings
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Rainwater harvesting systems
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Outdoor learning spaces
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A library/media center with tech-enabled collaboration zones
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Cafeteria and wellness center
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Multipurpose gym and athletic areas
The campus functions not only as a school but also as a model of eco-conscious design and living.
Student Life and Extracurriculars
Terra Environmental Research Institute students are encouraged to be engaged citizens and leaders. The school offers a variety of clubs, societies, and programs including:
Academic and Professional Clubs
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National Honor Society (NHS)
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Mu Alpha Theta (Math Honor Society)
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Science National Honor Society
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Future Health Professionals (HOSA)
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Engineering Honor Society
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Robotics Club
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Model United Nations
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Debate Club
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Green Club
Arts and Culture: Terra Environmental Research Institute
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Yearbook Committee
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Drama and Theater Club
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Environmental Film Production
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Creative Writing and Literary Magazine
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Student Government Association (SGA)
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TERRA Broadcast Network and Podcast Studio
Athletics
Although academics are prioritized, Terra Environmental Research Institute supports a range of sports such as:
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Track and Field
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Cross Country
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Basketball
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Volleyball
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Soccer
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Cheerleading
Environmental Commitment
Environmental sustainability is not just a subject taught at TERRA—it is part of the school’s DNA. TERRA practices what it preaches through:
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School-wide recycling and composting programs
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Water bottle refill stations
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Solar energy demonstrations
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Native plant landscaping
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Environmental education across all grades
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“Bike or Walk to School” incentives
College and Career Readiness
The school's College Assistance Program (CAP) provides:
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Personalized college counseling
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SAT/ACT prep courses
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Essay and application workshops
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FAFSA and scholarship support
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College fairs and university visits
College Acceptances
TERRA graduates have been accepted to top institutions such as:
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Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
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Harvard University
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Stanford University
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University of Florida (UF)
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Florida State University (FSU)
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Duke University
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Cornell University
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Johns Hopkins University
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Georgia Tech
Students have also received prestigious scholarships including Gates Millennium, Posse Foundation, and National Merit.
Admissions Process: Terra Environmental Research Institute
Applicants are evaluated based on:
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Academic performance (middle school GPA and standardized test scores)
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Magnet program preference
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Demonstrated interest in STEM/environmental sciences
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Availability of space in chosen academy
Key Dates: Terra Environmental Research Institute
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Applications Open: October
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Deadline: Mid-January
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Notifications: March
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Orientation: April–May
Due to high demand, applicants are encouraged to apply early and meet all requirements.
Community Engagement and Partnerships
TERRA thrives on community involvement and has developed strategic partnerships with:
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Florida International University (FIU)
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Miami Dade College (MDC)
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The Everglades Foundation
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National Wildlife Federation
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NASA & NOAA
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Baptist Health South Florida
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Zoo Miami
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Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden
These relationships support student research, internships, mentoring, and service-learning projects.
Notable Achievements and Recognition
TERRA has received numerous awards and accolades over the years:
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U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon School
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Florida "A" Rated School (Every Year Since Opening)
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National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence
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Top 100 High Schools by U.S. News & World Report
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Winners of Envirothon, FIRST Robotics Competitions, and Intel Science Fair
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Featured on PBS NewsHour and in National Geographic’s Education Channel
Testimonials
“TERRA prepared me to succeed in college and taught me to be a responsible global citizen. I learned to code, research, and even plant trees.”
– Daniel R., Class of 2022, now attending Georgia Tech
“Our daughter grew into a confident young scientist at TERRA. The school gave her more than an education—it gave her purpose.”
– Maritza S., Parent
“TERRA is the blueprint of what public education should look like. It's innovative, inspiring, and inclusive.”
– Mr. James O., Science Faculty
Conclusion
The TERRA Environmental Research Institute is not just a high school—it’s a transformative experience. With its STEM-centered curriculum, environmental mission, and unmatched academic rigor, TERRA prepares students not only for college but for life. It nurtures critical thinkers, responsible citizens, and future leaders who understand the importance of balancing progress with sustainability.
As the world looks to education to solve some of its biggest challenges, schools like TERRA lead the way—providing hope, direction, and a sense of purpose for the next generation.
Whether you're a student eager to make an impact, a parent looking for the best academic environment, or an educator seeking innovation, TERRA offers an inspiring vision of what education can achieve.
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