Youth Exploring Climate Science

In partnership with the Parks Department and local non-profits, the Youth Exploring Climate Science program provides field-trip programming to outdoor locations across the county for 7th through 12th grade students. Students gain a stronger understanding of local climate challenges, such as sea level rise, biodiversity, and wildfire management, and see real-world examples of climate solutions.

Youth Exploring Climate Science Trip Options

Explore our trip options for more details on location, subject material, and how to book a trip.

high school students on field trip at Cooley Landing on San Francisco Bay studying sea level rise science

Youth Exploring Sea Level Rise Science

During these field trips, students learn about the relationship between sea level rise and climate change as it relates to local landscapes in San Mateo County. Trip includes a relevant climate science lesson, guided informational walk, and worksheet activity for students.

When: Fall to Spring
Where: Coyote Point and Cooley Landing
Capacity: 60 students per trip
Trip Length: 120 minutes (not including transportation)

Cooley Landing Signups
Coyote Point Signups

students walking mountaintop trail on field trip exploring biodiversity science

Youth Exploring Biodiversity Science

During these field trips, students explore local landscapes and learn about climate impacts on biodiversity. Students will explore a local park and learn about ecosystem resilience. Trip includes a relevant climate science lesson, guided hike, and worksheet activity for students.

When: Fall to Spring
Where: San Bruno Mountain and Stulsaft Park
Capacity: 60 students per trip
Trip Length: 120 minutes (not including transportation)

San Bruno Mountain Signups
Stulsaft Park Signups

students on Youth Exploring Climate Science field trip on trail at Skyline Ridge Preserve

Youth Exploring Wildfire Science

During this field trip, students gain a better understanding of wildfire management and climate change impacts in San Mateo County. Students will learn about fire safety and mitigation efforts. Trip includes a relevant climate science lesson, guided hike, and worksheet activity for students.

When: Fall to Spring
Where: Stulsaft Park and Skyline Ridge*
Capacity: 60 students per trip
Trip Length: 120 minutes (not including transportation). *Skyline Ridge trips are very limited and will be 3 hours long.

Stulsaft Park Signups
Skyline Ridge Signups

Next Generation Science Standards featured in each program:

Youth Exploring Sea Level Rise Science	Youth Exploring Biodiversity Science	Youth Exploring Wildfire Science
MS ETS1.B MS ETS2.B MS ESS2.D MS ESS3.C MS ESS3.D	MS ETS1.B MS ESS2.D MS ESS3.C MS ESS3.D MS LS4.D	MS ETS1.B MS ESS2.D MS ESS3.C MS ESS3.D
HS ETS1.B HS ETS1.C HS ETS2.B HS ESS2.D HS ESS3.B HS ESS3.C HS ESS3.D	HS LS4.C HS LS3.B HS LS4.D HS ETS1.B HS ESS2.D HS ESS3.B HS ESS3.C HS ESS3.D	HS LS2.B HS ETS1.B HS ESS2.D HS ESS3.B HS ESS3.C HS ESS3.D

For more details about each trip, NGSS connections, and information about the booking process, please check out the 2024-2025 YECS information guide (PDF).

The YECS Program offers the following resources to 7th-12th grade teachers and students in San Mateo County:

In-person field trips to Coyote Point, Cooley Landing, Stulsaft Park, San Bruno Mountain, and Skyline Ridge, depending on availability and unit topic.
Student Worksheets for each field trip to ensure student comprehension and engagement.
Pre-trip video lesson for teachers and students to solidify foundational climate change knowledge and intro to subject material prior to the trip.