Coast Alive! Land-Sea Interface Teacher Institute

Six days + six different parks + 20 teachers eager to learn = ...

"I have never attended such an accessible, in-depth, and hands-on workshop! I will definitely recommend this institute to every teacher I
know!” - Kylee, 5th grade teacher

“You provided a warm, safe, fun environment in which we could learn, question, laugh, and risk not knowing. The hands-on activities are invaluable.” - Kristina, 7th/8th grade teacher

“I gained a better understanding of the coast environment. I now have a broader scientific knowledge of this environment to share with my students.” - Teacher Participant

"I’m so thankful I took this course and was able to meet so many passionate educators. I’ve learned so much and feel confident to bring more activities into the classroom and prepare a field trip!” – Lisa, kindergarten teacher

“What a wonderful six days! I looked forward to each of them, not only for the opportunity to experience each park but to share it with all of your knowledge and enthusiasm!” – Dianne, 7th grade teacher

“The collaboration with my fellow teachers and educators was very enjoyable, as was the amazing variety of parks and facilities that we visited.” - Teacher Participant

“For me it was inspiration. This was such a well run, fun institute that it got me excited. I can’t wait for school to start so I can implement things that I learned. I just hated to see it end. I’m sure if you planned a part II for next summer, we would all be there.” - Teacher Participant

“I learned more about the ecology of the bay area, about the environment around me, field trip opportunities, the need for us as humans to help the endangered wildlife and that in the bay area we have so many beautiful parks to visit. I LOVED this experience, want more, need more!” - Teacher Participant

What teachers gained from the Coast Alive! experience:

“Understanding the process of science (doing is most important); it is OK for the teacher not to know 'the answer' – keen observation; willingness to live with uncertainty, asking questions, ongoing investigations are more important. - Kristina, 7th/8th grade teacher

“Modeling how to integrate experimental design more often into my curriculum; several fun hands-on, inquiry based activities; process is more important than the ‘right’ answer; writing methodology.” - Teacher Participant

“Revitalization, extra enthusiasm to take the extra hours to set up an integrated field study with my students.” - Teacher Participant

“New hands on labs to use with units I already teach.” - Teacher Participant

“Field trip ideas that are super student centered!” - Teacher Participant

“I like the variety of activities. Usable and hands-on." - Teacher Participant

“I enjoyed learning about watersheds and marsh habitats." - Teacher Participant

“Many many thanks for a very thorough workshop. Long live the salt marsh harvest mouse!!” - Adriane, 8th grade teacher