UKIAH, CA – This summer, Mendocino County Office of Education (MCOE) is hosting the 2nd Annual Science Retreat at Mendocino Woodlands State Park. Educators engaging students in science from transitional kindergarten through grade 12 are invited to join the three-day retreat July 24 through July 26. Participants will be nourished by nature and community as they collaborate and gain inspiration to tackle opportunities and challenges.
As conversations about COVID-19 fade from daily life, educators are still deeply concerned about the long-term impacts on students and the education community. MCOE is taking a unique and creative approach to support science educators in addressing these concerns.
What Mendocino lacks in box stores, it more than makes up for with spectacular nature and resourceful people. The 2nd Annual Science Retreat aims to leverage that wealth by focusing on relationships and belonging to engage students in science through outdoor learning. Activities and discussions will revolve around Next Generation Science Standards best practices, Universal Design for Learning and Social and Emotional Learning strategies, increasing environmental literacy, and service learning opportunities for students.
Retreat facilitator and MCOE Continuous Improvement Specialist Dr. Maia Steward remarked, "Feedback from the inaugural retreat participants was overwhelmingly positive. Every educator expressed their desire to return, demonstrating the true value of the retreat. With the addition of an extra day this year, we look forward to hosting returning and new educators alike."
The retreat venue, Mendocino Woodlands State Park, is a National Historic Landmark nestled in 700 acres of redwood trees along both sides of Big River. Free time options include hiking, swimming, yoga, a challenge course, nature journaling, and evening bonfires.
Science educators are invited to register for the retreat here.