Dive into Discovery: Scout's Adventure Brings Coyote Creek to Classrooms

How do you spark a love for nature and environmental stewardship in young minds, without leaving the classroom? Keep Coyote Creek Beautiful (KCCB) has the answer: "Scout's Adventure," a dynamic and engaging program that transports K-5th grade students straight into the heart of the Coyote Creek Watershed.

The journey began with a vision. Local artist Paul J. Gonzalez, partnering with KCCB during the pandemic, aimed to create a mural for Empire Gardens Elementary School. But capturing the essence of the watershed through a screen proved challenging. Zoom meetings fell flat, failing to ignite the imagination. Paul knew he needed something more – something immersive.

Paul J. Gonzalez with the new Scout's Adventure backdrop

And so, "Scout's Adventure" was born. Paul transformed virtual learning into a real-world experience, crafting a vibrant Coyote Creek backdrop complete with mountains, trees, hand-made animal props, and the authentic sounds of the creek. This visual and auditory feast became the foundation for KCCB's interactive program.

A Sensory Exploration of Coyote Creek

"Scout's Adventure" engages the senses, turning learning into an unforgettable adventure. Led by the energetic Scout and the knowledgeable Naturalist, students embark on a 30-45-minute journey (tailored to grade level) through Coyote Creek.

• Sight: Paul's captivating backdrop and animal creations spark curiosity. As second grader Lyana observed, "We also saw a cut tree, a log, different types of animals and insects."

• Sound: The sounds of the creek come alive, from the loud tapping of a woodpecker to the gentle flow of water. "I heard the woodpecker," exclaimed Leo, while Angelina noted, "In the falling log there is a home...habitat! for insects that live in the little log.

• Touch: Students get hands-on with natural objects, exploring acorns and insect models. "I touched acorns! I wish that I could eat it, but I can’t," said Nicole. Tanya  was surprised “When Molly pulled out all the insects.”

• Smell: Even the sense of smell is engaged with the passing of a California bay leaf, eliciting a range of reactions from the students.

Scenes from Scout's Adventure featuring interactive elements.

Learning Through Movement and Action

To understand the water cycle, students don't just listen; they dance! The Naturalist leads them through a fun, kinesthetic experience, turning precipitation, runoff, evaporation, and condensation into memorable moments.

But the learning doesn't stop there. "Scout's Adventure" also addresses the crucial issue of human impact. When Scout "litters" along the creek, students erupt in outrage, demonstrating a clear understanding of the consequences. This leads to a discussion of the 4 Rs: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Refuse. In one class a student was so horrified they immediately jumped up and began picking up the prop litter.

Student Insights and Discoveries

The program leaves a lasting impression. Students share their newfound knowledge and insights:

• "I didn’t know that Coyote Creek has coyotes," admitted Maday.

• One student exclaimed upon seeing an acorn “I've never seen an acorn before.”

• "We learned that there were bees and dragonflies. Bees carry pollen to their hive and they drop some on their way to their hive. It falls on the flowers," shared Zoe and Eli.

• “I felt weird like I was in another place. I have never been to this place on their board. There was a squirrel on the table!” 

• I was surprised when Jane exclaimed, “when they were talking about Coyote Creek because I didn’t know it was an actual thing, like a real place.”

Responses after experiencing Scout's Adventure at school

"Scout's Adventure" is more than just a presentation; it's a catalyst for environmental awareness. By engaging students' senses and sparking their curiosity, KCCB is cultivating the next generation of stewards for the Coyote Creek Watershed.

Molly Curtis showcases our sponsors and some of the characters.

This project was made possible by grants from the California Coastal Commission's WHALE TAIL® Grants Program, Santa Clara County, and Applied Materials Foundation.