Environmental Education
Learning in an outdoor classroom is an adventure! The Southern California Mountains Foundation is committed to providing quality School Programs with trained volunteer naturalists. We believe learning outdoors helps students appreciate the natural world.
The Discovery Center offers programs on a request basis only. Please email [email protected] to request a school visit or private program.
Programs are available Thursdays & Fridays; May, June, September, and October.
The Mountains Foundation offers two different environmental education programs:
- Investigating Ecosystems
- Junior Forest Ranger
Investigating Ecosystems
Students engage in observation, activities, and discussion about local wildlife, food chains, healthy habitat, and adaptations. Through activities, students gain an appreciation for the complexity and diversity of the natural environment. Students will gain a greater understanding of environmental stewardship and the importance of preserving and protecting public lands.
- Open to all grades with modifications for each grade.
- Length: 2 – 3 hours
- Students: 80 Maximum
Junior Forest Ranger
Students journey through a series of three activities where they will have hands-on opportunities to learn skills that will excite them about their local mountains while completing their ranger workbook. Students will learn basic principles of fire ecology, the different parts of a compass, complete an orienteering course, and explore the natural world to improve their observation skills. This program provides continued learning through workbook activities that motivate children to explore and embrace their responsibility to the natural world.
- Grades: 1-6th, with grade modifications
- Length: 3 hours
- Students: 80 Maximum
School Program Fee Schedule:
- 2 hour program; $10/per student with a minimum of 20 students
- 3 hour programs; $15/per student with a minimum of 20 students
Logistics:
- Our limited dates book up fast; please call a month in advance for reservations.
- Teachers must ensure that participants are prepared for the trip and arrange transportation and chaperones. Two chaperones per 20 students are required.
- All registered groups will receive a confirmation email which includes maps, a list of recommended clothing and any additional information you may need to know.
Infromation Folder:
All registered groups will receive a complete information folder, which includes maps, a list of recommended clothing and preparation guidelines.
Weather and Cancellations:
Groups may reschedule trips due to bad weather. Cancellations must be made 24 hours in advance. Cancellations due to weather will be rescheduled at no extra fee. Other cancellations less than 24 hours in advance will result in full charge.
Payment:
Invoice will be sent once the program is confirmed. Payment needs to be received two weeks before the program date. For details and reservations, please contact: [email protected] or call (909) 382-2843
