Innovative Environmental Education Curriculum launched for local students

The California Coastal Commission Whale Tail Grant Program has funded the development of a new environmental sustainability curriculum that will be implemented this fall at Camp KEEP's Ocean and By the Sea campuses, the Kern County Superintendent of Schools (KCSOS) announced on Aug. 22.

Developed in collaboration with KCSOS's STEAM department, with additional support from statewide environmental education leader Ten Strands, the initiative introduces a completely updated curriculum that focuses on local student environmental experiences, environmental justice and climate change. Lessons are aligned with California's Environmental Principles and Concepts (EP&Cs) and the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), while integrating key ELA and math standards.

KEEP Ocean Naturalist Meghan Michel, who secured the grant, says this initiative is a significant step toward fostering environmental stewardship and sustainability among students, ensuring that the next generation is equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to address pressing environmental challenges.

"By empowering teachers with a curriculum accessible and responsive to student needs, we can ensure that students are prepared for their week at KEEP and can apply what they have learned back in their communities," Michel said.

Free environmental and climate literacy online trainings for teachers to support the curriculum will be offered on the following dates:

• Thursday, Sept. 5, 3 - 4:30 p.m.

• Wednesday, Sept. 25, 3 - 4:30 p.m.

• Tuesday, Oct. 29, 3 - 4:30 p.m.

• Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2025, 3 - 4:30 p.m.

To register, visit kern.k12oms.org/. Teachers may also reach out to [email protected] for more information.