SCICON, or the Outdoor School of Science and Conservation, is a unique learning environment located in the foothills of Tulare County, CA. Operated by the Tulare County Office of Education, SCICON is dedicated to educating fifth and sixth graders about the significance of science and conservation. Over 8,000 students visit the 1,170-acre campus annually to immerse themselves in nature, learn about environmental stewardship, and develop a sense of respect for themselves and others.
The school’s director, Dianne Shew, describes SCICON as a magical place where students can experience the beauty of the outdoors while gaining a deeper understanding of their impact on the environment. During their visit to SCICON, students have opportunities to hike through local trails, explore an aquatic lab featuring hands-on activities that teach about water quality and aquatic life. They also get to visit a museum featuring native plants and animals found in the area. One of Shew’s primary goals is to instill a sense of responsibility towards protecting our planet for future generations.
Unfortunately, in early 2023 SCICON was severely damaged by historic flooding that affected not only its infrastructure but also native salamander habitats. However, thanks to support from organizations such as Friends of SCICON and Disney Conservation Fund through grants and volunteer efforts led by Disney “VoluntEARS,” efforts are underway to restore these habitats. These initiatives will not only help repair the damage caused but also educate students on environmental conservation efforts required to protect local ecosystems.
Shew believes that by inspiring each student who visits SCICON with conservation messages and encouraging them to take action when they return home or attend other schools across California will lead to significant progress in preserving our planet’s natural resources for generations ahead. With continued support from community organizations like Friends of SCICON and Disney Conservation Fund along with dedicated volunteers from Disney “VoluntEARS,” SCICON remains committed to its mission: empowering students with knowledge about science and conservation while cultivating an appreciation for nature’s beauty and fragility.