Our Mission
Partnering with educators and organizations to cultivate scientists and citizens who are more critical, resilient, and humane
We are Sierra STEM
“Sierra”: Our team lives, works, and plays in California’s spectacular Sierra Nevada mountains. The montane, alpine, and high desert ecosystems of the Sierra are unique outdoor classrooms for students to practice new scientific and wilderness skills during our immersive place-based programs.
“STEM”: meaning science, technology, engineering, and math, which form the basis of all our programs. Like the study of these subjects, our curriculum emphasizes collaborative problem solving, creative and innovative thinking, and reflective analysis.
Core Values
Our Core Values are central to every aspect of our work at Sierra STEM, whether we are planning new curriculum, leading an outdoor educational experience, or participating in a community event. We aim to embody these values in all of our interactions with students, collaborators, and our environment.
Collaborative Discovery
Working together and supporting each other as we learn new things about ourselves and our environment
Healthy Discomfort
Facing physical, emotional, and intellectual challenges with a focus on learning and growth
Evidence-Based Practice
Using observations and research to inform our understanding of the world around us and to guide our actions as citizens
Humble Stewardship
Engaging in meaningful action to sustain our natural world, recognizing that humans are just one part of a complex Earth system
Rigorous Self-Inspection
Reflecting on ourselves–our identities, motivations, privileges, challenges, and biases–for the purpose of improving and growing as a person
Intentional Inclusivity
Welcoming everyone into our community with compassion and ensuring that all perspectives are heard and all experiences are valued