Located in the foothills of Tulare County, California, SCICON offers a unique educational experience for fifth and sixth graders to learn about science and conservation. Operated by the Tulare County Office of Education, SCICON sees over 8,000 students pass through its doors each year. The Outdoor School of Science and Conservation covers 1,170 acres and adjoins National Forest land, ensuring the preservation of the area for future generations.
SCICON’s Director Dianne Shew is passionate about teaching students about nature and fostering self-respect and mutual respect. Students like Gavin appreciate the fresh mountain air and have a newfound awareness of how human actions impact the environment. The recent flooding in the area caused damage to SCICON, particularly affecting the delicate salamander habitat. In response, the Friends of SCICON organization received a grant from the Disney Conservation Fund to support conservation efforts and restore the salamander habitat. The grant will also provide students in Tulare County with the opportunity to study and protect these endangered species.
Disney “VoluntEARS” joined in the effort to restore the salamander habitat, underscoring the importance of community involvement in conservation efforts. Shew believes that instilling a love and respect for the earth in children will help create a positive impact for future generations. With the support of grants and community volunteers, SCICON aims to inspire students to make a difference in preserving our planet.
The Outdoor School of Science and Conservation provides an immersive learning experience that allows students to explore nature, take hikes of varying difficulty levels, learn about aquatics, and visit a museum showcasing local flora and fauna. Through their studies at SCICON, students gain a deeper understanding of their surroundings and develop an appreciation for conservation efforts.
The Friends of SCICON organization plays an important role in supporting conservation efforts at SCICON by advocating for environmental protection and raising awareness about sustainability issues among local communities. The organization works closely with other environmental groups in Tulare County to promote responsible land use practices that preserve natural resources for future generations.
In addition to its educational programs, SCICON also offers various recreational activities such as rock climbing lessons, kayaking excursions on nearby lakes, and guided birdwatching tours through local forests.
Overall, SCICON’s mission is to inspire young minds with knowledge about science and nature while fostering a sense of responsibility towards their environment. By providing hands-on learning experiences that connect students with nature