In the foothills of Tulare County, California, SCICON is a magical place where students learn about science and conservation. Operated by the Tulare Office of Education, the Outdoor School of Science and Conservation welcomes over 8,000 fifth and sixth graders every year to explore nature’s wonders.
Director Dianne Shew describes SCICON as a place where students can discover themselves, respect one another, and care for the environment. The school is located on 1,170 acres of land that borders National Forest land, ensuring the preservation of the area for future generations. Students can participate in a variety of activities including hikes, aquatic studies, and visits to a museum showcasing local flora and fauna.
One student, Gavin, a sixth-grader who visited SCICON earlier this year appreciates the fresh mountain air and has become more aware of how human actions impact the earth. He acknowledges our responsibility to protect our planet and its inhabitants. Unfortunately, in early 2023, historic rains caused major flooding in the area that damaged SCICON’s fragile salamander habitat. To help restore it back to its former glory, Friends of SCICON received a grant from Disney Conservation Fund supporting global conservation efforts.
Disney “VoluntEARS” also joined in the effort by assisting with clean-up activities to revitalize the salamander habitat. Dianne Shew believes with this support from Disney Conservation Fund and VoluntEARS; students will develop a strong connection to nature and conservation ensuring a brighter future for our planet. Ultimately, she hopes that each child who visits SCICON will go home with an understanding of their role in preserving earth we all share.
SCICON’s primary goal is to educate students about science and conservation while fostering respect for one another and self-discovery. The school provides an immersive experience that helps students appreciate nature’s wonders while learning valuable lessons about environmental stewardship.
The Disney Conservation Fund played an essential role in restoring SCICON’s fragile salamander habitat after it was damaged by flooding earlier this year. Disney “VoluntEARS” also joined in on clean-up efforts to revitalize the habitat.
Dianne Shew believes that with this support from Disney Conservation Fund and VoluntEARS; students will develop a strong connection to nature and conservation ensuring a brighter future for our planet.
Ultimately, Dianne hopes that each child who visits SCICON will go home with an understanding of their role in preserving earth we all share.
In conclusion, SCICON is an exceptional place where students learn about science and conservation while fostering respect for one another and self-discovery. With support from organizations like Disney Conservation Fund and VoluntEARS; students can appreciate nature’s wonders while learning valuable lessons about environmental stewardship ensuring a brighter future for our planet.
