Perched in the foothills of Tulare County, CA, SCICON is a unique learning environment for fifth and sixth graders. Run by the Tulare County Office of Education, the school hosts over 8,000 students every year. The director, Dianne Shew, emphasizes the importance of students developing self-respect, taking care of the earth, and learning about nature.
Covering 1,170 acres and bordering National Forest land, SCICON offers an immersive outdoor learning experience. Students can take part 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 young minds.
For Gavin, his time at SCICON helped him connect with nature and understand the impact that human actions have on the earth. Despite facing challenges such as flooding that damaged the fragile habitat, SCICON has received support from organizations like Friends of SCICON and grants from Disney Conservation Fund. This grant will help restore the habitat while continuing to educate children about conservation efforts.
With assistance from Disney volunteers, the salamander habitat at SCICON is being revitalized. Dianne Shew believes that through education and community effort, future generations can learn to appreciate and protect our planet for generations to come. The key message is that everyone has a role to play in preserving our planet’s future.
SCICON offers an unparalleled opportunity for students to learn about science and conservation in a unique outdoor setting. With its emphasis on environmental stewardship and self-respect, it’s clear that this school is making a positive impact on young minds while also contributing to preserving our planet for years to come.