Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Who is eligible to apply?
All teachers are eligible to apply. Curriculum will focus on upper-grades science, grades 6th through 12th.

I’m not a science teacher. Should I apply?
Yes. No prior science skills are required. In fact, we encourage teachers from other disciplines to apply. Our activities incorporate California Content Standards for 6th through 12th grades, particularly science, math, and Language Arts standards.

I don't have any field investigation experience. Should I apply?
The California Institute for Biodiversity believes that field investigation and research skills can be acquired, improved on, and used in the classroom by all teachers willing to learn. You will not only “do science” but will learn the best ways to integrate many of the state standards into your curriculum.

How do I apply for the institute?
First, fill out the application form. From there we will review your application. If accepted we will ask you to complete the registration process including payment.

When are the applications due?
Applications must be received by April 30, 2010. If you apply before January 29, 2010 you will be eligible for our early-bird registration fee of $99. After January 29th, our registration fee will increase to $175.

How long is the institute?
The institute is six days long with two encore days in the following school year. The institute will be spread out over two weekends in the Sierra Nevada. Encore days have been scheduled in both Northern California and Southern California. You are required to go to both encore days in the region of your choice. Additionally, individual assignments will be given during the month of May and over the course of these sessions.

When is the institute being held?
The institute occurs over two weekends: June 18-20 and June 25-27, 2010. Both weekends are required.

Are there any other benefits if I participate in the institute?
Yes. If you attend all weekend sessions and complete all of the assignments, you will be receive a teacher manual, an interactive multimedia CD-ROM, and other curricular resources.

When will I find out if I have been accepted?
You will be notified by phone or e-mail that we received your application within two weeks of our receiving it. Applicants will be selected and notified no later than May 7, 2010. If you are selected, formal registration notification will arrive by mail before June 7, 2010.

How many teachers will be chosen?
Enrollment will be limited to 35 participants. If enrollment is filled, you will be put on a waiting list.

Will there be a waiting list?
If enrollment is filled, we will start a waiting list.

What about transportation?
You are responsible for your transportation to and from all meeting sites. We highly encourage everyone to carpool. Three weeks before the institute an e-mail list will be sent out to every participant so you can set up carpools. We will respect any requests to keep your e-mail private.

What about room and board at the institute?
Room and board will be provided at no cost due to a generous grant. All participants will stay at the Jack L. Boyd Outdoor School in Green Meadows near Yosemite National Park. Accommodations include individual cots and hot showers. Meals will be provided. Each weekend will include dinner on Friday, three meals on Saturday, and breakfast and lunch on Sunday.

What can I expect at the Jack L. Boyd Outdoor School?
Restrooms and showers are available but the participants must bring their own bedding, toiletries, and towels. With the exception of service animals, pets are not allowed. No food can be kept in cars or in the individual cabins. We encourage recycling, so please bring reusable water bottles and coffee cups.

What if I'm a vegetarian or have a special dietary restriction?
Vegetarian options will be provided during all meals. People with vegan or other special dietary needs are welcome to bring their own meals that can be stored in the cafeteria kitchen.

Will we be hiking during the institute?
Yes. At our institutes we don't stay in the classroom. You should bring comfortable shoes, rain gear, and a reusable water bottle. Since the Sierra Nevada mountains are at a higher altitude than where most of us live, we suggest taking short hikes to prepare for the course.

How much does the institute cost?
If you register before January 29, 2010 the registration fee is $99. After January 29th, registration will cost $175. Payment is required after your application has been approved. The other cost to the participants is their time, effort, and their own transportation to and from all meeting sites. Housing and meals are provided. Optional academic units are an additional fee through CSU Fresno.

Is the registration fee refundable?
The registration fee is non-refundable if you cancel. Please let us know if you are unable to attend so we can allow teachers on the waiting list to participate. If CIB has to cancel the institute for any reason, all registration fees will be refunded.

Are there any special rules?
Yes. Many of the locations will be wildlife refuges, reserves, and other protected areas. The institute is presented in a serious educational setting. We ask that you make other arrangements for children, pets, and other responsibilities you might have for these six days. No alcohol, drugs, or smoking permitted.

Whom do I contact for more information?
Please feel free to email roger@calalive.org