The Cal iforn ia Assoc ia t ion for Env ironmenta l and Outdoor Educat ion

Presents:

2014 Statewide Conference

“The Road Less Traveled”

March 28-30

SCICON Outdoor School

Springville, CA

AEOE’s Miss ion : The Assoc iat ion for Environmental and Outdoor Educat ion supports and insp ires educators in the i r ques t f or knowledge , sk i l l s ,

and at t i tudes e ssent ia l to he lp a l l l earners unders tand , apprec iate and care for the i r env ironment . As an integral part o f ach i ev ing our miss ion ,

we encourage d i r e c t exper i ence outdoors .

60+ environmental education workshops plus a keynote address, entertainment, meet and greet with other

environmental organizations, job fair and networking.

Friday, March 286:00 - 10:30

8:00 - 11:00

8:00

Registration @ Lodge (D)

Workshop Sign-ups @ Lodge (D)

Evening Entertainment@ Barton Amphitheater (J) (weather permitting)

“The Road Less Trave led”

Saturday, March 296:00 - 7:30

7:00 - 8:15

7:00 - 8:30

8:30 - 9:00

9:05 - 10:10

10:20 - 11:10

11:15 - 12:15

11:45 - 12:15

12:30 - 1:30

1:30 - 2:00

2:10 - 3:00

3:10 - 4:40

4:45 - 5:45

5:45 - 7:00

7:10 - 7:15

7:15 - 9:15

7:30 - 10:30

9:15 - 11:15

Birding @ Lodge (D)

Registration @ Lodge Porch (D)

Breakfast @ Lodge (D)

Opening Ceremony @ Barton Amphitheater (J)

Experience targeted break out groups

Workshop #1Lunch (Registration Open) @ Lodge (D)

Inclusivity meeting (all welcome) @ Lodge (D)

Keynote Address: Beau Miles@ Barton Amphitheater (J)

Howard Bell Award Ceremony@ Barton Amphitheater (J)

Workshop # 2Workshop #3Meet and Greet & Job Fair/Recreation @ Outside of Lodge (D)

Dinner @ Lodge (D)

Photography Awards @ Lodge (D)

Talent Show and Live Auction @ Lodge (D)

Movie @ Porterville Learning Center

Live Band: Bungee Jumpin’ Cows @ Barton Amphitheater (J)

Sunday, March 306:00 - 7:30

7:00 - 8:30

8:00 - 8:30

8:45 - 10:15

10:20 - 11:10

11:15 - 11:45

12:00 - 1:00

Birding @ Lodge (D)

Breakfast @ Lodge (D)

Council Meeting and Elections (all welcome)@ Lodge (D)

Workshop #4

Workshop #5

Closing Ceremony @ Barton Amphitheater (J)

Lunch, Clean-up (Please help!) & Farewell

Check out the workshop descr ip t ions for more info !

Conference Schedule

0-2 years experience

3+ yearsexperience

Administration

9:05 - 9:35 9:40 - 10:10

New Member

Orientation

Advanced Naturalist

Brainstorming

Supervisorbrainstorming

and introduction to EOSM

3 things that can’t be

missed

Advanced Naturalist Academy/

open forum

Supervisor/EOSM meeting/

open forum

@ Barton Amphitheater (J)

@ Lions Outdoor Classroom (H)

@ Tree Nursery Upper (M)

Open Sesame: Practicing the Art of the Invitation

Bridging the Gap Between Physical

and Academic Education:

A Frisbee Case Study

It’s All About The Flow: Teaching Between The Lesson Plans

Keeping The Magic Alive

Presenter: Amelia Rosenman, San Mateo Outdoor Education. Amelia Rosenman has worked as a naturalist at San Mateo Outdoor Education for five years.

Before launching into a lesson, I like to give students a reason to care about the subject at hand. An “invitation” connects the topic to students’ lives, and gets them excited to learn more. In this workshop, I will model several invitations for different lesson themes. We’ll also have a break-out session where you can invent an invitation of your own.

Presenter: Colin Chambers, Shady Creek Outdoor School. Colin “Teebird” Chambers is a Naturalist at Shady Creek Outdoor School. Colin graduated from U.C. Santa Cruz with a B.A. in Environmental Studies where he was the President of the Disc Golf Club. He developed his physical education techniques over 8 years of teaching swim lessons and training swim lesson instructors.

In this workshop we will look at the similarities and differences in techniques required to teach academic subjects and physical activities. I will share my step-by-step system for teaching physical activities. Through this comparison process students will learn about the history of flying disc sports and how to throw a “Frisbee.”

Presenter: Dan Crowley, NatureBridge Yosemite. Mara and Dan have worked for NatureBridge in Yosemite for a combined duration of almost 30 years. They have worked in various roles but primarily as Field Science Educators and Mentor Teachers. Their hearts will always be in the teaching world no matter where their roles take them.

Improve the effectiveness of your teaching day by connecting your activities in logical and fun ways. In this seminar we will explain the importance of “flow” and give you some techniques and resources that you can use to enhance the lessons you are already doing. Sub topics discussed will include, but are not limited to: games (team building and silly), jokes and riddles, “pair shares” (using discussion topics), and more.

Presenter: Steve Van Zandt, San Mateo Outdoor Ed. Steve Van Zandt is Principal at San Mateo Outdoor Ed. and song writer musician with the Banana Slug String Band. He has worked as a naturalist, swimming & surfing instructor, trip leader, summer camp leader, K-6 classroom teacher and Administrator. He has been leading outdoor ed and music workshops for 37 years.

From stories of inspiration and magic to teaching ideas that you can use tomorrow, this workshop is designed to renew your love for the art of teaching. We will look at ways to help students observe more through immersion and changing perspectives, to infuse a theme, “Framing” and,“Kinesthetic Focusers”. Some repeats from previous years and always new ideas as well. Join Steve Van Zandt (SMOE Principal & Banana Slug String Band) for a thought provoking and active session. Handouts Provided.

Workshop Block #1 - Saturday 10:20-11 : 10Teaching Techniques

Blacktop Next to Lodge(T1)

Tree Nursery Upper (M)

Exeter House Deck (G)

Lion’s Outdoor

Classroom (H)

Topic DescriptionLocation

Fail- the other four letter F-Word

What difference do we make?

Using Permaculture to transform your

site and curriculum

Up, Up, and Away! 3...2...1...blast off!

Presenter: David Rebel Carter, Whiskeytown Environmental School. My name is David aka B-Love. I am a Outdoor Instructor who has years of camp and E.E. experience. The bulk of my experience is in Group-Works i.e. Team building. I am also a performing artist who is good at storytelling which makes me good at teaching and leading workshops.

People who are afraid of failure often: don’t take chances, refuse to push their limits, set low goals, and even cheat to win. So I have a class that is a mixture of hands on, discussion and lecture/power-point, designed to explore and discuss the merit of embracing failure.

Presenter: Jessica Hewitt, Foothill Horizons Outdoor School. My master’s degree program gave me a great excuse to learn more about the impact of outdoor education on students, and study our own students. This is a project that I have dream of since first doing outdoor environmental education as an Intern at Foothill Horizons Outdoor School in 2003.

Does 3-5 days really change a student’s life? How many are actually impacted by such a short experience? Come see some data and join the discussion on how we impact children and change their lives as adults.

Presenter: JAnna Maria Desipris, Irvine Ranch Outdoor Education Center. I am the Life Science Director at the IROEC. I manage the Life Science Curriculum, Citrus orchard, garden and staff to bring quality outdoor education to our campers. Originally from Reno, NV I love spending time outdoors, growing food and sharing my knowledge with others on how to improve our relationship with nature and our planet.

I’d like to present the basics of Permaculture and the essential functions of this practice. Then showing the modifications we have made to our site and how those naturally laid the foundation for the changes in our Life Science curriculum.

Presenter: Kayla, Orange County Outdoor Science School. I am completing my 6th year with ITO Orange County OSS as one of their Lead Instructor. I have also worked at a variety of summer camps over the years in just as many positions such as ropes director, programing director, and most recently head chef.

In this workshop learn how to teach concepts of flight from nature and human made aircraft’s to your students. We will be building and testing paper airplanes, parachutes, and bottle rockets!

Teaching Techniques Cont inued

Valley Oak Classroom

(E)

Porterville Learning Center

(A)

Blue Oak Classroom

(P)

Outside Seating

(C)

Topic DescriptionLocation

Science/Sus ta inabi l i ty

Wildlife Skulls

Natural history of our common

birds: Amazing facts you

(and your kids) need to know!

Discussion Routine

Smorgasbord

Presenter: John Borba, University of California Cooperative Extension. John Borba is a 4-H Youth Development Advisor for the University of California. His experience in camp settings include both residential and day camps and he has operated military camping programs for dependent youth in California and Germany. He has also been active in promoting outdoor education programs with 4-H, scouts, and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Wildlife Skulls is a hands-on learning activity that promotes reasoning skills by having participants try to identify assorted wildlife species by examining their skulls. The class will begin with an overview of skull structure to include eye placement and teeth. It concludes with the class being paired in teams and sent on a “safari” to locate and identify the skulls of California wildlife that are situated around the area of the camp.

Presenter: Molly Schreiner, Sierra Outdoor School. Molly is currently a Sierra Outdoor School intern and thinks birds are the coolest! Before coming to the wonderful world of outdoor education she worked on a variety of projects banding birds, nest searching and conducting surveys. She is definitely a bird nerd.

Learn fun facts and natural history about birds that will excite you and your students! You may see Acorn Woodpeckers every day but did you know that they stay in family groups for years and that first year birds help to raise more young? This workshop will help you make a lasting connection to some of our most common birds and will benefit the beginning birder and interest even the most experienced bird nerd.

Presenter: Lynn Barakos & Kevin Beals, BEETLES - Lawrence Hall of Science. Lynn Barakos is a professional development specialist and senior staff member at UC Berkeley’s Lawrence Hall of Science. She is co-developer and instructor of the BEETLES professional development (PD) program and co-presented the pilot PD sessions for environmental educators at residential outdoor science schools. She has extensive experience leading and developing professional learning experiences around inquiry-based science teaching and learning.

Research about learning is clear that the discussion of ideas is key to deepening student understanding of science. In fact, engaging in scientific discussion, whether through arguing evidence, constructing explanations, or evaluating models is one of the most important skills for learners to develop- therefore discussion-leading is probably the most important (and challenging) skill for field instructors. We will model a variety of discussion strategies, from simple to more complex, developed by the BEETLES project for leading students on trail.

Natural is t 101

Rotary Outdoor

Classroom (K)

Picnic Area (I)

Eagle Point Arbor

(R)

Topic DescriptionLocation

Field Sketching with Children

Bridging the Gap: Growing

Volunteers

Presenter: Christina Chung, Exploring New Horizons. Christina ‘Kiwi’ Chung is a naturalist at Exploring New Horizons at Loma Mar. She is an avid crafter and enjoys sewing, knitting, painting, and using creative ways to connect kids with nature.

Looking for a creative way to get your students noticing the nitty gritty? This workshop will show you how to use art and sketching as tools for sharpening your students’ observation skills - even if you think you can’t draw. Materials will be provided, so just bring yourself!

Presenter: Joanna Vance, YMCA Camp Campbell. Co-presenter, David Benterou.

Let’s talk youth leadership! Come participate in discussions on volunteer development, training, retention, and ways to foster long-term community relationships with young adults! We will share some of our experiences and training ideas as well as our new internship program. Please come ready to share some of your leadership experiences!

In terdisc ip l inary

Tree Nursery, Lower

(N)

Lodge, East Deck

(D)

Topic DescriptionLocation

Assuming People in

Urban Nature

Discovering Who you are

as a Naturalist

Presenter: Zoe Burton, San Francisco Recreation and Parks Department

As environmental education in an urban setting transforms to blend stewardship of the environment with the health and justice of its participants, how do we change assumptions and integrate these values? Enjoy interactive activities that will prompt sharing experiences and discussion on the topics of urban environmental education, diversity, environmental justice, and stewardship. Network and learn from others through this guided session. Let’s reintegrate people’s realities back into our understanding of nature.

Presenter: Brook Garnica, The Outdoor School at Rancho Alegre. Co-presenter, Sarah Pereverviez. Brook “Ocean” Garnica - Ocean has been a Naturalist for 2.5yrs. Growing up in Camarillo CA she frequently escaped to the Ocean for her time of bliss in Nature. She graduated from California Polytechnic State University with a B.S. in Parks Recreation and Tourism and minored in Spanish. The Workshop is focused on discovering who you are as a Naturalist. We know that there are so many teaching styles. Yet, sometimes it is difficult to learn from other Naturalists and adapt it as our own. Therefore, this workshop will help beginning and intermediate Naturalists take some time to self-reflect as well as learn how to improve their Naturalist teaching style to benefit their students.

Lodge, West Deck

(D)

Valley Oak Classroom

Porch (F)

Divers i ty/Inc lus iv i ty

Road-Tripping For Naturalists

101

Debate is Great!

Peer Evaluation: Fun for

Everyone

Presenter: Bryan Snyder, Rancho Alegre Outdoor School. Bryan Snyder works for Rancho Alegre Outdoor School in Santa Barbara and has spent ten summers traversing the Rockies with his trusty blue Jeep, Charlie. He has yet to run out of places to explore.

This session will cover the basics on how the typical underpaid naturalist can indulge in an adventurous, explorative summer off-season in the Great American West without going bankrupt. Using slideshows and maps, we will discuss how to find free car camping on public lands and in questionable areas. Learn how to locate hot springs, navigate the Couchsurfing.com website, and stay clean, well-fed, and digitally-connected. It’s a beautiful country…. why wait any longer to see it!

Presenter: Robin Clancy, NatureBridge Yosemite. Robin Clancy has been a Field Science Educator for NatureBridge in Yosemite for three years. She enjoys piña coladas and walks in the rain.

Explore the power behind asking students “What do YOU think?” Learn to use debate to encourage student engagement and help students forge informed positions on environmental topics. I’ll share quick and breezy techniques as well as lesson plans for longer programs. Topics include water use in California, Hetch Hetchy, the Merced River Plan, and of course, the Lorax.

Presenter: Tamara Perreault, High Trails Outdoor Science School. I attended Bowdoin College in Maine and developed a love for ecology, hiking, paddling, surfing, and any sort of outdoor adventure. Now I work at High Trails Outdoor Science School, and I love finding creative ways to share my passions with students.

Want to learn how to become a better instructor? The best way to learn is often from your peers who do the same thing that you do but have a completely different bundle of tricks up their sleeves. If you’re already required to do evaluations as part of your program, or if you’re an administrator interested in adding a new dimension, this workshop is for you.

Adminis t ra t i ve/Profess ional Deve lopment

Serendipity (B)

Serendipity (B)

Blue Oak Classroom

North (Q)

Topic DescriptionLocation

Workshop Block #2 - Saturday 2:10-3:00Teaching Techniques

The Art of Storytelling

The Eyes of a Scientist

Do Humans Think

Presenter: Devin Peyton, Sierra Outdoor School. Devin works at Sierra Outdoor School in the glorious Sierra Nevada where he captivates his audiences with mind blowing mysteries of the natural world.

Welcome friends! Let’s gather ‘round and share our tales of adventure, our story of the day. We will explore the art of storytelling as a way to set up a culture of wonderment in the natural world.Stories disguise seeds of experience and we all tell them! We will develop our storytelling skills and understanding of their power.

Presenter: Emilie Lygren, San Mateo Outdoor Education; B.E.E.T.L.E.S/Lawrence Hall of Science. Emilie Lygren graduated from Brown University with a degree in Geology-Biology. Since then Emilie has worked as a naturalist with San Mateo Outdoor Education and Exploring New Horizons. She also teaches nature journaling workshops with John Muir Laws and loves connecting with people and nature.

I Notice, I Wonder, It Reminds Me Of- This student-centered routine transforms trail experiences, supports any lesson, and is going viral within the environmental education community. Learn how to turn any discovery into a teachable moment. Leave ready to guide your students to find wonder in nature and think like scientists. Gather techniques that will give your students concrete observation skills that will allow them to engage with nature wherever they go. Educators new to or familiar with this routine will find information to enrich their teaching.

Presenter: Mike Vandeman. B.A. & M.A. in mathematics, Ph.D. in psychology, independent study in conservation biology. Wildlife activist and educator.

It’s obvious that humans can think, or we wouldn’t have Einsteins and Shakespeares. It’s also obvious that we sometimes don’t think, or no one would smoke. Nor would we ignore the fact that animals run away whenever we approach them. What determines if and when we think? The brain goes on “auto-pilot” whenever circumstances don’t require it to think. That is at least partly responsible for people holding on to outmoded ways of thinking, long after their sell-by date.

Teaching Techniques Cont inued

Listening Hill (L)

Eagle Point Arbor

(R)

Valley Oak Porch (F)

Topic DescriptionLocation

The Mad Scientist!

Presenter: Tracy Delperdang, SCICON. Multi-Subject Teaching Credential; Aquatic Biology Naturalist at SCICON; Project WET Facilitator; Certified Steve Spangler Science; Wildlife Rehabilitation Specialist; wife and mother of twins. Science nerd.

Science is NOT scary! Neurological studies have shown that engagement and fun make our brains work better, and science is the perfect format for doing so. Participants will engage in activities of chemistry, physics and biology, with take-away lessons aligned to Common Core Standards.

Rotary Outdoor

Classroom (K)

Teaching Techniques Cont inuedTopic DescriptionLocation

The Mad Scientist!

Presenter: Tracy Delperdang, SCICON. Multi-Subject Teaching Credential; Aquatic Biology Naturalist at SCICON; Project WET Facilitator; Certified Steve Spangler Science; Wildlife Rehabilitation Specialist; wife and mother of twins. Science nerd.

Science is NOT scary! Neurological studies have shown that engagement and fun make our brains work better, and science is the perfect format for doing so. Participants will engage in activities of chemistry, physics and biology, with take-away lessons aligned to Common Core Standards.

Rotary Outdoor

Classroom (K)

Wildlife Tracking

101

Fun in the Sun: Teaching about Solar Energy

Drought Adaptations:

How do plants and animals

cope?

Presenter: Brianna Larsen, Foothill Horizons Outdoor School. Brianna first became addicted to tracks as a student at the Children of the Earth Foundation’s Coyote Tracks Camp and has enjoyed practicing tracking as a wildlife biologist and outdoor educator. She currently works as a Naturalist at Foothill Horizons Outdoor School in Sonora, CA.

In this basic tracking course we will use observation skills to spot tracks and sign, explore different components of animal tracks, learn to distinguish features of track compression shapes, compare animal gait patterns, and practice tracking in different substrates. This course will be primarily hands-on with some discussion, drawing exercises, and plenty of “dirt time.” Although this workshop is definitely for beginners, experienced trackers are welcome to join and share their knowledge.

Presenter: Christine Byrne, San Mateo Outdoor Education. Co-presenter, Tor Allen. Christine has worked as a Naturalist for San Mateo Outdoor Education for the past three years. After receiving a PG&E Bright Ideas grant she has helped implement SMOE’s solar energy education program as part of the Organic garden/sustainability center.

In this workshop, we’ll share several fun & engaging activities designed to introduce students to the primary energy source on Earth, …the Sun. We’ll model lessons that teach students about alternative energy and play with hands-on teaching tools that make electricity from sunlight to power motors, fans, radios, music, lights, and pumps.

Presenter: Korena David, Foothill Horizons Outdoor School. Korena has been happily working as a Naturalist for over a decade. She never ceases to be amazed by the diversity and beauty of life on this planet.

We are all aware that we are experiencing the worst drought in California’s recorded history. Do you ever wonder how the state’s flora and fauna survive such harsh environmental conditions? Attend this workshop to learn about the amazing different adaptations that our state’s organisms have to help them survive drought.

Tree Nursery Upper (M)

Picnic Tables

(I)

Lion’s Outdoor

Classroom (H)

Science/Sus ta inabi l i ty

Science/Sus ta inabi l i ty Cont inuedTopic DescriptionLocation

What’s the Buzz About?

Insects!!!

Presenter: Rachael Mallon, Sierra Outdoor School. Rachael is a second-year intern at Sierra Outdoor School, where a student once told her, “I can tell you love your job by how excited you are!”

Did you know that many insects replace water in their body with a chemical called glycerol, which acts as an “antifreeze” against cold temperatures? In this workshop, you’ll learn interesting facts about insects to capture your student’s curiosity. Bring your own interesting facts to share and learn from fellow educators. We’ll also discuss characteristics of common insect orders to help your insect identification skills.

Outside Seating

(C)

Nature Songs (JAMMED

OUT!!) Educational Tunes Taken

to Space and Beyond

Knowing the Night Sky

Personal Sustainability:

How to Healthily Do It All

Presenter: Jason Little, Shady Creek. My human name is Jason Little, but everyone knows me as Sasquatch. I have a twin brother named Yeti and we have been playing music for over 15 years. I am the Senior Naturalist at Shady Creek Outdoor School. We Naturalists give so much to our schools/students, this workshop is to provide new depth and appreciation for nature music.

Dirt made my lunch?? Habitat?? Piece of scat?? There are plenty of songs that we play at our respective schools with the purpose of educating our students and having fun, of course! This workshop is focused on bringing a new joy to these often played tunes by providing a space and stage for our talented community of musicians to share their love of music. All levels and instruments are welcome!! Bring a song, learn some songs.. And jam it down!!!

Presenter: Justin Covino, Sierra Outdoor School. Justin, is bearded, as many outdoor educators are. He likes to climb rocks and run down hills. Music makes his bones tingle, especially when he has the opportunity to play it with friends.

What appears to be a discordant array of stars in the night sky can quickly become a sky full of images and natural phenomena. We will learn how to easily “star hop” between constellations and other objects in the sky, which will allow participants to identify the position of certain constellations and interstellar objects throughout the year. Coupled with how to navigate the sky, will be mind-blowing facts about said objects. A nighttime starwatch with a telescope will follow.

Presenter: Sarah Finder. Sarah is currently a masters student at the Technical University in Munich, studying Sustainable Resource Management. Her Naturalist internship year was spent at Foothill Horizons in Sonora, CA; there she wrote many lesson plans, ate a lot of cafeteria food, was always singing Rhianna songs about ecology, debated nature-names, trained an owl, and danced a lot.

After (1) gaining an understanding about stress and its affects and (2) reviewing long-term vs. short-term goals, needs, and priorities, participants will be able to have a personal understanding of their priorities and goals and how best to balance their different responsibilities and roles. This will be a space to explore, reflect, relax, and even practice some physical stress-reliving activities that are Naturalist-specific!

Eagle Point

Amphitheater (S)

Lodge East Deck (D)

Valley oak Classroom

(E)

Natural is t 101

In terdisc ip l inaryTopic DescriptionLocation

TeenNat: Engaging

diverse teens in Citizen Science

Gathering of the Lovely

Presenter: Nicole Barden, Pepperwood Preserve. Nicole started her path as an Educator as an intern at SCICON. She went on to study Biology with an Environmental Education minor at Northland College on the shores of Lake Superior in Wisconsin. As Environmental Educator at Pepperwood Preserve, Nicole helps develop the education curriculum, leads field trips, visits schools, and leads TeenNat, a summer internship for teens.

How can you create a teen program that incorporates data collection, learning and getting outside? Learn about TeenNat, a month long summer internship at Pepperwood Preserve where teens collect useful scientific data, explore natural science careers, and learn photography and GPS skills. This workshop will be give you an opportunity to share your experiences working with teens and discuss ways to make teen programs most successful.

Presenter: Sarah Foglesong, Pathfinder Ranch.

In the past, pranks have gotten a bad name as being destructive and mean-spirited. Pulled correctly, though, a well planned positive prank could be just the event your community needs to come together in light-hearted play to creatively express appreciation. Join in this workshop to explore the many options for creatively expressing appreciation in your workplace or living community and to help pull a positive prank on one of AEOE’s hardest working members.

Blue Oak Classroom,

South (P)

Exeter House Deck (G)

Adventures for All Abilities

NAI Certification

Presenter: Erika Weikel, San Diego County Office of Education-Cuyamaca Outdoor School. For over a decade I have worked with adults and kids with all abilities in various outdoor and school settings. Currently I work as an Outdoor Education Program Specialist at Cuyamaca Outdoor School. I earned BS degree in Psychology with minor in Biology from SDSU.

Looking to inspire Outdoor Educators on ways to provide immersion in nature for all students, regardless of their physical or cognitive abilities.

Presenter: Emily Jacobs, National Association for Interpretation. Emily has been a seasonal park ranger with the NPS, an instructor at an outdoor science school, and an educator at a college that provided training to K-12 teachers. More recently, she managed an interpretive program in Yosemite. She is a trainer for NAI and for the NPS and holds a Masters of Science with an emphasis on Interpretation/Environmental Education.

What it is and Why You Need it!- Are you interested in interpretation, but aren’t sure quite how to do it? If so, then join this session given by the National Association for Interpretation! Discover our six levels of certification; find out which one is right for you, and how the program helps to build interpretive skills! With a program well over a decade old, and one that has certified over 30,000 interpreters/educators worldwide, we’re sure you’ll find something for you!

Lodge, West Deck

(D)

Blue Oak Classroom

North (Q)

Divers i ty/Inc lus iv i ty

Adminis t ra t i ve/Profess ional Deve lopment

Not all who wander are lost

The Power of Story Telling

Best Practices in Nature

Journaling

The Quest

Presenter: David McNay, Pathfinder Ranch. I have taught Outdoor Education for six seasons in Washington, Texas, and now California, and summer camp in Maine. I have the explorer’s bug and can’t help but to look around one more corner, trying to find another hidden interesting or beautiful spot. I love to wander, and definitely am not lost.

How can we as Naturalists create the experience of getting “lost” or going off-trail safely for our students, including those of various abilities? Let’s wander off-trail at Scicon to explore the hows and whys, and see if we get lost, or become found.

Presenter: Rick Mitchell, SCICON. Rick Mitchell has been the director of SCICON for the past 25 years and has had the benefit of seeing many creative staff use the power of story telling with students.

Story telling is an extremely powerful technique in teaching students. In this workshop you will discover a variety of story telling techniques. Participants are encouraged to share their own stories that they have found to be successful with students. There is a rumor that the “Hermit of SCICON” may make an appearance to share his unique story as well!

Presenter: Emilie Lygren, San Mateo Outdoor Education; B.E.E.T.L.E.S/Lawrence Hall of Science. Emilie Lygren graduated from Brown University with a degree in Geology-Biology. Since then Emilie has worked as a naturalist with San Mateo Outdoor Education and Exploring New Horizons. She also teaches nature journaling workshops with John Muir Laws and loves connecting with people and places.

Naturalists have recorded observations and experiences through drawing and writing for centuries. Armed journals they looked deeply, made discoveries, and remembered what they saw. Make use of your program’s journals and give this opportunity to your students. Offer the practice of nature journaling and watch students fall in love with being outside. Learn simple, fun activities that will engage students as scientists through exploration and reflection. Discover how journaling can support any lesson and enrich any experience in nature.

Presenter: Jymn “Scooby” Meier, Walden West. Jymn “Scooby” Meier has worked as a naturalist in the Santa Cruz mountains for the past 24 years. Through the impact of his own experience as a sixth grader in outdoor ed. Jymn blends together the social and natural experiences of the outdoor school setting. A technique that earned him the N. Environmental Educator of the year in 2009.

This workshop will give naturalists ideas on how to integrate self esteem building and team building into their field class in a residential outdoor school setting. Participants will receive lesson plans and a DVD to help map out ways to integrate challenges and other projects to help make their field class into a team. Be prepared to hear inspirational stories and share ideas to help strengthen the sometimes neglected but very powerful social experience of outdoor ed.

Workshop Block #3 - Saturday 3:10-4;40Teaching Techniques

Listening Hill (L)

Eagle Point Amphitheater

(S)

Eagle Point Arbor

(R)

Lion’s Outdoor

Classroom (H)

Topic DescriptionLocation

Science/Sus ta inabi l i tyTopic DescriptionLocation

What the pH? It’s actually

pretty basic…

Understanding Skulls and the Mammals They

Come From

Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS)

Presenter: Emily Scavarda, Camp SEA Lab. A huge science nerd, Emily has been playing outside professionally for about 5 years. She transitioned from a biochemistry lab into outdoor education because naturalists have more fun. She firmly believes that a solid foundation in science of all types is super useful for understanding and teaching about what is happening in the world around us.

Chemistry?! I thought this was supposed to be fun! Forget the nasty substances and hours standing next to a Bunsen burner... We will have fun as we experiment with purple cabbage indicator and watch common household acids/bases change color dramatically before your eyes. (Way cooler than pH strips). Learn how you can incorporate this experiment into discussions of water and soil quality at your program and expand your understanding of current conservation topics like ocean acidification.

Presenter: Nancy C. Harrington, Sierra Outdoor School. Nancy is currently an intern at the Sierra Outdoor School. She is from Maryland, and graduated from the University of Delaware with a degree in Environmental Science concentrating in Ecology and Wildlife Conservation. In her free time she enjoys rock climbing, birding, and crocheting.

This workshop will begin with a discussion of the significance and special characteristics of mammals, then lead into common orders and families found in California. After that we would proceed into basic skull morphology of mammals, emphasizing key features of specific orders. We will use a basic dichotomous key to identify skulls. The workshop will conclude keying out example skulls to their order, focusing also on teeth of various consumers.

Presenter: Catherine Mandella, CA Dept of Fish and Wildlife. Catherine Mandella’s Masters is in International Affairs/Environmental Studies. She was an environmental educator for over 15 years and a biologist for over 20. For the last 8 years she has been the Aquatic Invasive Species and Quagga/Zebra Mussel Program Manager for the Bay Delta Region of the CA Dept of Fish and Wildlife. She is also a musician.

History, Identification, Inspecting, Monitoring and Decomination Methods. Overview of prominant AIS issues. * View Don’t Move a Mussel Video by Pacific States Marine Fisheries Commission * Monitoring/and Outreach Methods geared for Environmental Educators * Decontamination Methods * Hands on Species ID activity * I will share valuable resources as well AIS game activities.

Lodge, East Deck

(D)

Valley Oak Classroom

Porch (F)

Porterville Learning Center

(A)

Service Learning Project: Building

Recycling Bins

Moose Nuggets

Museum/Raptor Center

Gee Gull-y, That Bird Adapts!

Presenter: Danny Sudman, Green Camps Initiative. My background in summer camping and environmental education allows me to help shape programs to reach a diverse audience and provide them with valuable critical thinking skills in an effort to better themselves and their communities. As of January 1st, 2014 I began full-time development of my start-up nonprofit, Green Camps Initiative to bring sustainable resources to the camp community.

We will be constructing recycling stations along with signage for SCICON, the host facility of the conference, to make it easier for visitors to sort recyclables. As the green conference coordinator for the AEOE Spring Statewide Conference, Green Camps Initiative will be facilitating this project and providing additional resources on how you can implement this and other sustainable initiatives at your camp facility. A two-part workshop, attend one or both sessions.

Presenter: Ben Jamin Walker. Ben Jamin Walker is an old-school wilderness Naturalist with over 30 countries of experience. He has lived wild with Kalahari Bushmen after traveling by land from England to Botswana at age 19. Ben has also walked across the Rockies with a blanket, and has lived entire winters in the Canadian bush. “Moose” is a Naturalist at Green Meadows Outdoor School.

Learn and try dozens of Moose Chocolatte’s fun and crazy tricks. You will get to light campfires with sticks and stones, flashlights and hatchets. Experience animal calls that really work, make a stone knife, carve a bushwood bow-n-arrow, and rediscover the adventure of childhood. (Hands-on skill practice will also be available after the workshop near the dining hall, around meal times.)

Presenter: Mary Eberle, SCICON. Co-presenter, Chelsea Saeland. I have been the museum specialist for 14 years, developing displays, working with students and interns, and managing the raptor center.

Participants will explore the museum’s natural history exhibits, and have an up-close experience with raptors, snakes and insects.

Presenter: Kathleen Anderson, East Bay Outdoor School at Camp Arroyo. Kate is a Naturalist at East Bay Outdoor School at Camp Arroyo. She enjoys long walks with binoculars, telling the only three jokes she knows repetitively, playing sprout ball, and sharing her love of classy Aves (get it?!?!) with anyone who will listen.

Do you love birds? Do you not yet love birds? Do you know what a bird is? Expand your avian knowledge in this workshop aimed at helping educators teach adaptation through the lens of birds. Birds are in every ecosystem, are some of the easiest animals for kids to watch, and are a great and exciting scope (get it?) through which to teach science! Participants will engage in a class structured for 5th graders but loaded with extra background knowledge.

Upper Visitors’

Parking Lot (Where Recycle

Bins Are)

Outdoor Picnic Tables

(C)

Phyllis Wall Museum

Picnic Area (I)

Science/Sus ta inabi l i ty Cont inued

Natural is t 101

Topic DescriptionLocation

The Inspiration of Aldo Leopold

Germ Warfare: how to defend

yourself again kid germs naturally

Presenter: Amy Roe, Foothill Horizons Outdoor School. Amy Roe first entered the field of outdoor education in 1996. She has worked as a naturalist at Foothill Horizons for 10 years. She has also taught in the classroom as a Waldorf Teacher and worked in conservation education for the US Forest Service.

Come gain inspiration from the biographical documentary of Aldo Leopold, Green Fire. Aldo Leopold, considered the father of deep ecology, has inspired generations with his insightful writings. After viewing the film we will discuss ways to honor his legacy with today’s students.

Presenter: Traci Gardner, Sierra Outdoor School. Traci had a 10 year career in outdoor education before deciding to change professions. Health, herbal medicine, and nutrition led her to apply for naturopathic medicine school. However, the universe had other plans. She now has two little ones, is a naturalist again, and continues to study health and nutrition on her own.

All educators are faced with a daily onslaught of germs from students who do not always practice good hygiene (think: wiping nose on sleeve, not cover coughs/sneezes, picking nose, and not washing hands after using the bathroom). Come find out how to build your defenses naturally through food, supplement, and lifestyle choices. We’ll also discuss some quick home remedies for common illnesses. Samples of foods and remedies discussed will be available.

Valley Oak Classroom

(E)

Serendipity (B)

In terdisc ip l inaryTopic DescriptionLocation

A Day in the Life of a Submariner

Presenter: John Sanders, KEEP Cambria. My name is John Sanders, I have mentored as a Naturalist with the Kern Environmental Education Program (KEEP) since 2012. For the last 3 yrs. I’ve directed my own natural history/marine science summer camp, Delphinus School of Natural History in San Luis Obispo. BA Biology/Animal Physiology and MA Marine Science UCSC.

Marine mammals are uniquely adapted for life in a dense, mobile, often frigid, three-dimensional medium. Their struggle for survival is often hindered directly because of their proximity to human activity; and indirectly by things humans introduce into their environment either intentionally or through ignorance. It is vital that stewardship be an ongoing theme in outdoor education, and this group will explore ways to effectively get our students to internalize the principles of the natural cycle.

Blue Oak Classroom

South(P)

Divers i ty/Inc lus iv i ty

Cross-cultural Comparison:

Outdoor Ed in US and Australia

Common Core, Next Gen. Science

Standards: What Are They & How Does EE/OE

Fit In?

Story Telling for Naturalists

Presenter: Beau Miles, Monash University. Beau Miles is a PhD student and outdoor educator at Monash University in Australia. He is currently researching the lived realities of outdoor educators and recreators. He is also the Keynote Speaker at this year’s conference.

This workshop will compare the practice and theory of outdoor education from opposite ends of the planet. Observations from a practitioner splitting his time over 10 years of North/South travel, who also happens to be our keynote speaker!

Presenter: Helen de la Maza, California Regional Environmental Education Community. Helen de la Maza wears many hats but is primarily in the field of science education. One of her jobs is being the part-time Orange County Coordinator for the California Regional Environmental Education Community (CREEC), which is a statewide program administered by the STEM office at the California Department of Education.

Participants will learn about the Common Core State Standards - English Language Arts, Common Core State Standards - Mathematics, and Next Generation Science Standards through a visual presentation and discussion. Specific attention will be given to how these three new California Standards affect EE/OE programs, and how EE/OE programs can implement pedagogical strategies that address them. Each participant will be given a handout packet that can be used for further research and discussion with staff.

Presenter: Sean, Camp Campbell Outdoor Science School. Moose is a large ungulate from the Santa Cruz Mountains. He is the only Moose in the Santa Cruz Mountains currently. He likes mud, bark, pond algae, and bellowing in the morning air... and condors.

Story Telling for Naturalists is a place to come discover the art and wonder of story telling. Please come share your stories and story telling techniques, and learn from other story telling naturalists. Stories and story telling guides are available at no charge.

Rotary Arbor (K)

Blue Oak Classroom

North (Q)

Tree Nursery, Lower

(N)

Divers i ty/Inc lus iv i ty Cont inued

Adminis t ra t i ve/Profess ional Deve lopment

Double Block - Saturday 2:10-4;40Teaching Techniques

Topic DescriptionLocation

How Outdoor Science Schools can play a lead role in NGSS

Are You an Effective

Naturalist?

Profound Pause - Silence

& Solitude…

Presenter: Lynn Barakos, BEETLES Lawrence Hall of Science. Co-presenter, Craig Strang. Lynn Barakos is a professional development specialist and senior staff member at UC Berkeley’s Lawrence Hall of Science. She is co-developer and instructor of the BEETLES professional development (PD) program and co-presented the pilot PD sessions for environmental educators at residential outdoor science schools. She has extensive experience leading and developing professional learning experiences around inquiry-based science teaching and learning.

As the California science standards are being phased out and the Next Generation Science Standards are being adopted, outdoor science schools can potentially lead the way for schools and districts to implement the vision of the new Framework for K-12 Science Education and NGSS. We’ll take a close look at some standards related to environmental education themes. We’ll also model quality trail activities from the BEETLES project that can be used to authentically address the performance expectations described in NGSS.

Presenter: Dean Thompson, KEEP Ocean. Dean Thompson has been a field biologist, naturalist and professional storyteller for over 27 years. He is the Lead Naturalist for KEEP Ocean and was the 2012 Howard Bell Award winner.

Many of us teach natural history and even hold the job title of Naturalist. What does this mean? What is our role? How can you become a better naturalist and live up to the responsibilities of such a prestigious title? Dean Thimpson, a teacher, storyteller and Naturalist for over 25 years will facilitate an entertaining and informative lecture/discussion on teaching techniques, resources and ways to become an even more effective naturalist. If time permits we will conclude with a Naturalist swap meet to improve our ability to teach natural history.

Presenter: Gregg Parker, San Diego County Office of Education Cuyamaca Outdoor School. Gregg is a naturalist and interpretive tour guide currently working at Cuyamaca Outdoor School with summers in Yosemite National Park. He has been involved in experiential and adventure education since 1984. With 30+ years on the same career track, he enjoys encouraging others to sustain long term in purposeful outdoor work that is sometimes viewed as “just a stepping stone”

This workshop will explore silence and solitude as effective tools in environmental education. It will look at inspirational examples of students’ creative writing and drawing, culled from 12 years documented practice... It will discuss structure for what could be the “most powerful 1/2 hour” of your kids’ camp experience. Then participants will be guided through an exercise in stillness, creative writing or drawing and optional sharing...( like we might do with students) for a fun and empowering closure.

Lodge (D)

Serendipity (B)

Rotary Outdoor

Classroom (K)

Divers i ty/Inc lus iv i ty

Workshop Block #4 - Sunday 8:45-10:15Teaching Techniques

Topic DescriptionLocation

Teamwork Makes the Dream Work

Phenology Monitoring with

NPS

Wildflowers and More! Old School

Botany Is Cool

California Rocks!

Presenter: “Kristen May, The Outdoor School at Rancho Alegre. Kristen “”Aspen”” May has worked in a variety of outdoor settings, from canoe trips on the Colorado River to 9-miles hikes at ODS.

Karin “”Otter”” Baty also has led many a team building programs from IL to MN to NH to CA.

We are so skilled in our team-leading, we are almost the same person!”The group that plays together, stays together! The goal of this workshop is to give educators the tools to be facilitators in team building activities. The tools we will teach can be used for both students and staff, pre-teens, teens and adults and can be useful and transferred in many settings. We’ll play some games, solve some problems and then learn to facilitate and debrief them safely and effectively.

Presenter: Dani Crawford, National Park Service

Join an experienced Park Ranger as you delve into the world of phenology. The presentation will include...What is phenology, what are we monitoring here in the parks, practice monitoring some blue oaks and/or buckeyes at SCICON, how to submit your observations with Nature’s Notebook, and how we are using phenology in our education programs for students.

Presenter: Jeremy Miller, California State University, Chico. Jeremy Miller has been sharing his love of the natural world since his internship year at SMOE. Since then he taught both in and out of the classroom, ranging from outdoor school in the Swiss Alps to an 8th grade classroom in the Bay Area. He is presently a lecturer in the Science Education Department at CSU Chico.

Arctostaphylos uva-ursi got your tongue tied? We’ll go on an old-school wildflower walk (SCICON has some of the best flowers in the Sierra foothills) and blend in new-school teaching as we geek out on plants and take a beginner level romp through Latin and Greek scientific names. Plant lore and more.

Presenter: Reed Schneider, Sierra Outdoor School. Reed has been teaching outdoor education in California for 6 years and has accrued a sizable rock collection over the years. Reed has a BSC in geology from Dalhousie University.

Are there any rocks at your site? Have you ever wondered what they are and how they got their? We will be learning about the geologic history of California (this year with more of a focus on the last million years and on the formation of the coastal range.) We will also be studying actual rocks collected in California and learning how to identify them in the field. Bring a rock from your site to add to the discussion.

Picnic Tables (I)

Eagle Point Arbor

(R)

Valley Oak Classroom

(E)

Outside Seating

(C)

Teaching Techniques Cont inued

Science/Sus ta inabi l i ty

Topic DescriptionLocation

Service Learning Project: Building Recycling Bins

Presenter: Danny Sudman,Green Camps Initiative. My background in summer camping and environmental education allows me to help shape programs to reach a diverse audience and provide them with valuable critical thinking skills in an effort to better themselves and their communities. As of January 1st, 2014 I began full-time development of my start-up nonprofit, Green Camps Initiative to bring sustainable resources to the camp community.

We will be constructing recycling stations along with signage for SCICON, the host facility of the conference, to make it easier for visitors to sort recyclables. As the green conference coordinator for the AEOE Spring Statewide Conference, Green Camps Initiative will be facilitating this project and providing additional resources on how you can implement this and other sustainable initiatives at your camp facility. A two-part workshop, attend one or both sessions.

Upper Visitors’ Parking

Lot (Where Recycle

Bins Are)

Science/Sus ta inabi l i ty Cont inued

Tree Nursery Exploration

Butterflies: Fascinating Facts,

New Activities, Net-Making,

and ID

Plant communities and uses

Presenter: Dianne Shew & Kellee Lamb, SCICON. As forestry specialist, Dianne Shew ran the Tree Nursery program at SCICON for 11 years. A native of Tennessee and owner of Balch Park Pack Station, she brings her love of the outdoors to the students of SCICON. Kellee Lamb is a native of Springville. A naturalist at SCICON, she is now in charge of the Nursery.

Hands on experience in a Tree Nursery setting. Projects will include, transplanting young trees, composting with red wigglers and soil building techniques. Emphasis on easy, cost effective projects for students.

Presenter: Kimberly Anne Pedersen. Before moving to California, I worked at an environmental center in Pennsylvania. This is where I first participated in the North American Butterfly Association count day and discovered my passion for these beautiful creatures. Since then, I have devised ways to incorporate butterflies into my teaching. I also developed and led a public program about butterflies last summer.

Have you ever watched a butterfly sip nectar from a blooming flower or had one land softly on your salty arm? These creatures allow a superb opportunity for observation and education. Learn more about what makes butterflies so fascinating and ways you can incorporate them into your teaching. Assemble a butterfly net from collected and donated parts. If conditions are favorable, use your new net for a catch and ID session at the end.

Presenter: Sihaya Meijer, Wild Child Santa Cruz. I teach a nomadic nature course for homeschoolers age 6-10, our organization is called wildchild freeschoo (www.wildchildfreeschool.org)l. I have studied botany, herbalism, wildcrafting, plant communities and primitive skills pretty extensively. I attended the North East School of Botanical Medicine. I live on my sail boat in the San Francisco Bay.

We will be discussing plants, plant communities, how to identify them and their different uses as food, medicine and tool making. I would like to provide people with enough information to start to get to know the plants in their habitat.

Tree Nursery (N)

Lion’s Outdoor

Classroom (H)

Eagle Point Arbor

(R)

Natural is t 101

Topic DescriptionLocation

Native Californian Basketweaving

The Sensory Experience:

Making Camp Accessible for Children with

Autism

Dialogue on Professional

Growth

Presenter: Cathy Chambers, KEEP. I have been studying ethnobotany and basket weaving for almost twenty years. I have been a naturalist at KEEP for 15 years, and was a park ranger in San Diego county before that. I am also very interested in native plant gardens and school gardens.

We will make a simple basket and twine from tule using native Californian technique, and learn how other plants were used in other areas of California for baskets and fiber. We will learn how to incorporate this into our outdoor ed lessons. *Note: Material Fee of $5

Presenter: Erin Royce, YMCA Camp Marston. Erin Royce is an outdoor education program coordinator at YMCA Camp Marston. During the summers, Erin works as a director at Dragonfly Forest, a camp in Pennsylvania that provides a free week of camp for children with challenges, including Autism. In 2013, Erin participated in the start-up summer for Camp Tall Tree, a Michigan-based camp for children with autism.

Working with children at camp is a challenge, but for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders, the camp experience can be overwhelming. In this workshop, we’ll cover the very basics of ASD, work through some scenarios, and provide some helpful hints for working with children on the spectrum. We’ll wrap the whole thing up with some hands-on sensory activities that make any camp experience a memorable one!

Presenter: Jennifer Ortega, faculty member for the Department of Environmental Science and Management at Humboldt State University

Jenn Tarlton, faculty member for the Department of Environmental Science and Management at Humboldt State University

Come join us for a dialogue to generate ideas for future professional development offered by AEOE. We will begin with defining professional development. Highlight ongoing learning and professional development currently being offered. Explore the professional development offerings from other state environmental education associations.

Lodge, West Deck (D)

Porterville Learning Center

(A)

Blue Oak Classroom

North (Q)

In terdisc ip l inary

Divers i ty/Inc lus iv i ty

Adminis t ra t i ve/Profess ional Deve lopment

Topic DescriptionLocation

Integrating Residential

Outdoor Science School Programs with Education

and Environment Initiative (EEI) State Adopted

Curriculum Classroom Instruction

Discovery Swap

Avalanche Boards: Create your own

avalanche!

Presenter: Laura Powell, Representing Office of Education and Environment. Laura Powell has twenty-four years of experience in education, as a secondary teacher in social studies, science, ESL, and as a CREEC Coordinator and Environmental Education (EE) consultant. Laura has a Masters in Curriculum, Teaching, and Learning with an emphasis in EE. Laura’s work includes curriculum development, professional development, including EEI educator trainings, and connecting formal and nonformal educators.

The California Education and the Environment Initiative (EEI) Curriculum teaches traditional academic subjects through an environmental lens and is classroom based. The EEI Curriculum stimulates interest in a wide range of environmental topics and serves as a springboard for teachers to connect with resources beyond the classroom. This session will demonstrate how San Mateo Outdoor Education and Walker Creek Ranch worked with 5th grade teachers to Integrate EEI water units with their outdoor education programs. Order a free EEI unit.

Presenter: Kevin Beals ,B.E.E.T.L.E.S., Lawrence Hall of Science. Kevin is director of BEETLES & 7 year OSS naturalist. In 24 years at Lawrence Hall of Science, he has authored more than 90 published curriculum guides, children’s books, and professional development videos. He has conducted more than 250 professional development workshops, institutes and keynote addresses locally, nationally and internationally.

A new B.E.E.T.L.E.S. student-driven trail routine to facilitate students sharing and teaching each other about organisms they have found and investigated. A simple strategy using science practices to make trail hikes more student-and-nature-centered, and less instructor-centered.

Presenter: Karalyn Hartford, McCall Outdoor Science School. Hello, my name is Karalyn Hartford. I am an environmental education instructor and a masters student in Education at the McCall Outdoor Science School in McCall, Idaho. I teach winter science programs from January until May including snow metamorphism, avalanche testing and monitoring, winter animal tracking, as well as human interactions with winter.

This workshop’s purpose is to teach educators how to engage kids in avalanche studies through the use of an avalanche board. I will teach a basic understanding of the mechanics of avalanches and the effects of snow metamorphism on avalanches. This will be followed by demonstration and experimentation with the avalanche board where we can make our very own avalanches! Participants will be given instructions on how to make their own avalanche board and will be given time to experiment.

Blue Oak Classroom

South (P)

Rotary Outdoor

Classroom (K)

Lion’s Outdoor

Classroom (H)

Adminis t ra t i ve/Profess ional Deve lopment Cont inuedTopic DescriptionLocation

Workshop Block #5 - Sunday 10:20-11 : 10Teaching Techniques

How to teach the Scientific Process.

Awesomely

Fire Ecology: The Future of our

Forests

Presenter: Joanna Hoffman, McCall Outdoor Science School (University of Idaho). Joanna and Luke are products of the California outdoor school community. Currently, we are grad students at the University of Idaho working towards a Master of Science in Natural Resources with an emphasis in Environmental Education. This program is based at the McCall Outdoor Science School (MOSS) where we concurrently take graduate level courses and teach K-12 students.

Including experiments in your lesson plans can seem intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be! We will explain how to incorporate the scientific process into your lessons and overall program. We want to empower you to guide students in designing and conducting their own experiments in the field. Also, we have some fun technology to play with. (We’re fun too.)

Presenter: Lara Getz, Sierra Outdoor School. I have a Forestry degree with a concentration in Biology and a double major in Natural Resource Management from Colorado State. I have had many classes that study fire behavior and ecology, and have also gone through the S-130/S-190 wildland fire fighter trainings. Fire ecology greatly interests me and I feel the public would enjoy more education on the subject.

I will start with a broad introduction to fire history, using powerpoint to portray the start of fire suppression in the early 1900s based on dendrochronology data. I then will move into what suppression has done to the forests, talk about ladder fuels, crown fire, and the fire triangle, and give support for the use of fire in management of forests in the future. Finally, I will help the audience find ways to relate this information to kids.

Lodge, West Deck (D)

Valley Oak Classroom

(E)

Science/Sus ta inabi l i ty

Topic DescriptionLocation

No Child Left Awake/ No Child

Left

Presenter: Keith Riley & Solar Steve Van Zandt, San Mateo Outdoor Education. My name is Keith Riley and I have work as Healthcare Specialist At San Mateo Outdoor Education for the last four years. I am doing this work shop with Solar Steve from the Bannana Slug String Band and principle of San Mateo Outdoor Education

Songs for quiet times and for putting students to sleep and dismissal songs from the dining hall and other program areas will be presented. These are original compositions and adapted covers. Handouts with lyrics and guitar chords will be provided. Please bring a recording device and an instrument if you want to play along. A few new and unrecorded Banana Slug String Band Songs will be presented. Beginners guitar players and those interested in song writing are encouraged to attend.

Eagle Point Amphitheater

(S)

Natural is t 101

Introduction to Poi Performance

Art

The Role of Technology in

Outdoor Education

ESL - Integration Activities

Creating awesome ways to encourage

continued education in your outdoor program

Presenter: Natalie “Luna” Gilliam, Exploring New Horizons Outdoor School. Aloha, my name is Luna and I am a naturalist at Exploring New Horizons Outdoor School located in the Pescadero Valley. I have been fire dancing for 9 years and enjoy performing for the youth during evening programs. My passion is to encourage the youth to spend time pursuing their creative interest in a healthy and confident way.

This workshop with provide beginning steps to poi performance art to inspire creative movement, reduce stress, and increase muscle strength. Please attend if you are interested in learning a new skill that is fun, safe, all ages friendly, and captivating. All levels are welcomed and practice poi will be provided.

Presenter: Sarah Horylev, Foothill Horizons Outdoor School. Sarah has worked as a naturalist at Foothill Horizons Outdoor School since 2008.

In this workshop we will discuss the role of technology in outdoor education. We will look at the role technology can play on the trail as well as the role it can play in public relations, outreach, counselor recruitment, etc. Part of the workshop will be dedicated to sharing how the workshop participants’ programs are incorporating new technology.

Presenter: Ana Flavia Goncalves, YMCA-Camp Marston. Ana Flavia grew up in Brazil. She studied and taught Biology in Brazil for 6 years before she decides to move to the US. Ana has been working at YMCA-Camp Marston for a total of 5 years, and has gone from an OE instructor to Health Center Coordinator. She loves camp because the staff is like her second family.

Introductions. Name game with participants. Discussion and recognition of what are the nonverbal kinds of communication. Discussion of how know your public is important for inclusion and interaction. Interactive games.

Presenter: Noel Leon, High Trails Outdoor Science School. I am the program coordinator at High Trails Outdoor Science School in the San Bernardino Mountains. I have been working for High Trails since April of 2012 upon returning from India where I was an AP Biology Teacher at an international school for 2 years. I have been in the field of education for 10 years.

Are you looking for ways to encourage your staff to enhance their knowledge and expertise while improving the overall quality of your program? In this workshop we will discuss a leveling up system and it’s benefits as well as a variety of ways to use evaluations and in-services to enhance your program, and that’s just the start!

Outdoor Seating

(C)

Serendipity (B)

Lion’s Outdoor

Classroom (H)

Blue Oak Classroom,

South (P)

Natural is t 101 Cont inued

Interdisc ip l inary

Divers i ty/Inc lus iv i ty

Adminis t ra t i ve/Profess ional Deve lopment

Topic DescriptionLocation

MealsAll meals will be served buffet/

cafeteria style. You must wear your wristband for meal service. Meal choices are provided for AEOE’s omnivorous, vegan and gluten-free

members based on your registration choice. Please eat that food choice for the entire weekend. If you eat the vegan choice, someone who registered as a vegan will lose their meal. We will be composting much of our food waste so please follow the posted directions! If you have a more specialized diet please bring your own food. Coffee and tea will be available in the Lodge.

MerchandiseAcorn Naturalists will be back with books, tools and more. Check our their website at http://www.acornnaturalists.com. We will also have AEOE merchandise for sale.

We will need volunteers to help with meal set up and clean up, parking, logistics and other vital parts of the conference. Contact volunteer.coordinator@aeoe.org for more info on what is needed. THANK YOU!!!

Volunteer ing

There will be a silent and a live auction benefiting Joie’s Daisies, our scholarship fund. We accept cash or checks. If you are

interested in donating anything to the auction contact auction.coordinator@aeoe.org.

Auct ion

Profess ional Meet & Gree t

Are you looking for the next step in your career or simply a chance

to learn about the range of outdoor and environmental education job opportunities in California? Then be sure to bring multiple copies of your resume and take advantage of this chance to network with organizations and potential employers from around the state.

HousingIncluded in the basic conference cost, housing is in cabins or camping. cabins are dorm-style with no bedding provided. Bring a sleeping bag or sheet, blanket, pillow and PJs. Earplugs are a plus if someone in your cabin snores! Two grassy camping locations will be available; a quiet area, and a normal area. Bring a tent. Cooking on site is not permitted.

There are two separate contests this year.

The theme for the print photo contest is “The Road Less Traveled”. Submissions must be labeled with the title of your piece, your name, organization, location of your photo, and the date is was taken. All photos must have dimensions no smaller than 8”x10” and no larger than 11”x14”. Submissions for this contest may be hand-submitted at the conference, or uploaded ahead of time at http://form.jotform.us/form/40160493810144. We do not accept photographs submitted through mail. Submit no more than three photographs. The newest addition to the photo contest is an Instagram photography contest with the theme “Instagram Travels”. If submitting via Instagram, please caption your photo with the information stated above and submit to #AEOESpring2014. We do not accept more than one submission per Instagram account.Entries must be turned in by 11:00am, 3/29/2014 at the registration table or through Instagram.

PhotographyContes t

Hello,My Name Is

If you have a site/organization name tag or tree cookie, please bring it. We will have blank name tags available as well.

Name Tags

Parking is limited and we strongly encourage carpooling. Need a ride? Can you give a ride? See the ride

board: http:/ www.ridebuzz.org/events-group/aeoe-spring-statewide-conference-2014-23945.html

Parking

We are very excited to have The Bungee Jumpin’ Cows (http://moo-boing.com/) entertaining us on Saturday night. From the website: “The Bungee Jumpin’ Cows play

fun, cool, hard-driving, funny and original music. Their performance is a feast of visual imagery with wild characters, crazy costumes, audience participation and fun shenanigans. Their musically creative and lyrically clever songs encompass a wide variety of energetic styles, including rock, funk, pop, surf and rap. These talented musicians, teachers, and vocalists have pioneered a brand of kids’ music that’s not just for kids.”

Howard Bel lAward

Presented on Saturday afternoon, from 12:45-1:00 before the Keynote address.

The award goes to the person who has devoted a lifetime to environmental education.

We are pleased to have Beau Miles join us as the keynote speaker this year. Beau is an outdoor educator, filmmaker, sea kayaker, trail runner, PhD student and overall adventurer who will be speaking about how his adventures on the road less traveled have influenced his career in outdoor education. Check him out at https://beaumilesfilm.com/.

KeynoteSpeaker

Band

Guidel ines forRespec tfu lBehavior

As a professional organization, we expect responsible and respectful

behavior from our members. Anyone who is being disruptive will be asked to leave without a refund.

AEOE depends on dedicated volunteers to make these conferences happen. This year, those volunteers have included: Angie Kemsley (Conference Coordinator), Katie Andersen, Helen de la Maza, Andrea Haley, Steve Morris, Lauren Oliver, Logan Rohrbach, Amanda Martin, Danny Sudman, Robb Stolberg, Zayanne Thompson and Cassie Turner. Thank You!!!

NO cooking allowed on site (so don’t bother bringing cooking gear)NO pets; NO weapons; NO amplifiers;NO illegal drugs; NO alcohol

Ski t andTalent Show

All performances must submit the following: name(s) and contact info (email and phone), title and short description of act, set up time needed, and length of act. To allow everyone time in the spotlight, we request you keep to less than seven minutes. We must have the above to include you in the extravaganza. RSVP by applying on the website at http://form.jotform.com/form/2344329235 no later than March 19, 2014.

Please stop by the Lodge to take a trip back in time to AEOE’s roots. Check out old newsletters, memorabilia and conference photos.

His tory Display

Green Prac t icesAEOE works hard to ‘practice what we preach.’ Some of our efforts include: composting and recycling everything we can, and

reusing items like banners and signs. We encourage the camp food service to use organic and locally-grown food as much as possible. As you travel and attend the conference, please consider what actions you can take to limit the overall environmental footprint of this event. In our effort to continue to expand our green practices, Green Camps Initiative (GCI) will be serving as the Green Conference Coordinator. Conference participants will be invited to help construct trash, recycling and cardboard stations around SCICON. Additionally, information on sustainable practices will be posted around the facility to provide educational resources and ways to incorporate those ideas back into your camp community. Come talk with the GCI representative during the conference and visit the GCI website (http://www.greencampsinitiative.org) to learn more about the efforts to bring sustainable initiatives to the camp community.

Conference Commit tee

What To Bring

GearSleeping Bag/pillow/blanket

(Bedding not provided in dorms)Pajamas

Tent (if camping)Flashlight

Alarm clock/watchTowel

ToiletriesEarplugs

Warm weather clothingSunscreen/hat

Cool weather clothingRain gear

Other Suppl iesMaps - ours is just a guide!

Money (cash, credit card, or check) for Acorn Naturalists,

AEOE merchanise and auctions Notebook and writing instrument

Tape recorder for stories and songs

Information on your program (brochures, etc.)

Job announcementsResumes for the job fair

SongbooksPortable mug for coffee or tea

Reusable water containerStories and songs to share!

ToysCamera

BinocularsField guides

Musical instrumentsYoga mat

Etc.

Be Prepared !SCICON is located eight miles

above Springville in the foothills of eastern Tulare County at an

elevation between 2000 and 3500 feet above sea level. It is likely

to be quite cold at night and cool during the day.

See You There !

SAVE THE

DATEMarch 28-30

SCICON Outdoor School

Springville, CA

AEOE Spring Conference

Keep an eye out on www.AEOE.org for info!

Direc t ions

SCICON41569 Bear Creek RoadSpringvi l le , CA 93265

From Porterville, take Highway 190 East to SpringvilleTurn Left on Balch Park RoadDrive 3 miles and turn right on Bear Creek RoadDrive 3 miles to the SCICON entrance gate

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