SCICON, located in the foothills of Tulare County, CA, is a place where students can learn about science and conservation. Operated by the Tulare County Office of Education, the school hosts over 8,000 fifth and sixth graders every year. The school’s director, Dianne Shew, emphasizes the importance of students learning about nature and taking care of the earth while developing self-respect.
Covering 1,170 acres and bordering National Forest land, SCICON provides a unique outdoor learning experience. Students can participate in hikes of varying difficulty levels, explore aquatic environments, and visit a museum showcasing local wildlife. The goal is to instill a love and respect for the environment in the younger generation.
For students like Gavin, the experience at SCICON helps them connect with nature and understand the impact of human actions on the earth. Despite facing challenges like flooding that damaged the school’s fragile habitat, SCICON has received support from various organizations such as Friends of SCICON and Disney Conservation Fund. This grant will help restore the habitat and continue educating children about conservation efforts.
With volunteers from Disney working tirelessly to revitalize salamander habitats at SCICON, Dianne Shew believes that education and community effort are key to preserving our planet for future generations. The overarching message is that everyone has a role to play in protecting our environment.
In summary, SCICON provides an excellent opportunity for students to learn about science and conservation while experiencing nature firsthand. Through their efforts to preserve their fragile habitat and promote conservation efforts among young people, Dianne Shew hopes to inspire future generations to appreciate and protect our planet for years to come.