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Outdoor Education Outreach

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Students completing art projects in an outdoor classroom

Modeling a “breath of fresh air” approach to outdoor learning

For almost 75 years, the San Diego County Office of Education has provided hands-on learning opportunities and programs to bring real-life science action research and activities to children and teachers throughout the region.

Science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) concepts are the foundation of our curriculum, which is designed to take full advantage of the Next Generation Science Standards. Our programs provide interactive activities for students to learn how STEM plays into their everyday lives. Our goal is to ignite a love for STEM in our students so they can become the next generation of science and technology leaders. Lessons incorporate experiences and citizen scientist projects to create hands-on learning that is meaningful and fun.

We connect students to science and nature through fee-for-service programs including Cuyamaca Outdoor School (the original 6th Grade Camp), Marine Science Floating Lab, and more.

In 2013, we served nearly 74,000 students. Donations are welcome to help San Diego County children have life-changing, educational experiences.

Mission

To provide students with experiential learning programs that enhance awareness and scientific understanding of the natural world and their connection to it while building self-reliance, teamwork, and a sense of social responsibility.

cuyamaca outdoor school

Cuyamaca Outdoor School, known to more than 1 million alumni as 6th Grade Camp, has been connecting students with science and nature since 1946.

Visit the Cuyamaca Outdoor School page

marine science floating lab

The Marine Science program is a half-day field trip conducted in the San Diego Bay on a boat outfitted with oceanographic equipment specifically for student use.

Visit the Marine Science Floating Lab Page

science outreach programs

SDCOE's Science Outreach programs provide students the opportunity to examine scientific phenomena and principles through innovative, inquiry-based, standards-driven activities. Learn more about these programs in the More to Explore menu.

More to Explore