In the fall of 1995, the School of Excellence in Math, Science, and Technology (MaST) was established at SHS (Sarasota High School). The MaST Research Institute operates as a school-within-a-school and is intended to provide qualified students with a rigorous enriched curriculum to prepare them for entry into Math, Science, Medical or Engineering related careers following high school.

The program offers a common academic core coupled with mentor-supervised research, and possible internships, career shadowing, and participation in summer institutes. The MaST Research Institute offers students a competitive edge when applying to university degree programs.