Yosemite Institute

Currently sophomores are invited for this experience.

This residential environmental education program is run by Yosemite Institute in Yosemite National Park. The goal of the trip is to provide a scientific outdoor educational experience which includes a field research component. Students might investigate forest ecology and Miwok Indian culture one day. The next, they could study evidence of glaciers and observe geologic formations.

In September 2009, 13 students participated in the Yosemite Institute program accompanied by two teachers. Up to 45 students will be included on future trips.  Students miss a week of school for this particular trip, as it spans six days.

Students have an opportunity to learn about the local ecology of both Yosemite valley and the highlands. This year they worked on a water quality project collecting data in the valley. They hiked every day and were out in the field working on projects from after breakfast until dinner. They also participated in evening programs learning more about the local ecosystem.