In California, nestled in the foothills of Tulare County, lies SCICON, an outdoor school that teaches students the importance of science and conservation. Operated by the Tulare Office of Education, SCICON hosts over 8,000 fifth and sixth graders each year. The director, Dianne Shew, describes the school as a magical place where students can learn about nature, caring for the earth, and developing respect for themselves and others.
Covering 1,170 acres and bordering National Forest land, SCICON provides students with opportunities to explore the outdoors through hikes of varying difficulty levels, lessons on aquatic life, and visits to a museum showcasing local flora and fauna. One student, Gavin, appreciates the fresh mountain air and recognizes the impact of human actions on the environment.
In early 2023, SCICON suffered damage from severe flooding caused by historic rains in California. The flooding endangered the fragile salamander habitat, prompting the Friends of SCICON organization to receive a grant from the Disney Conservation Fund. Disney’s “VoluntEARS” participated in habitat restoration efforts by helping clear debris left by the flooding. The grant will aid in restoring the salamander habitat and educating students about conservation efforts.
Shew believes that instilling a love for the environment in students will benefit future generations. By encouraging children to take small actions in their daily lives to protect the earth