BearTech – is an alternative educational program whose concept includes science classrooms rooted in nature, place-based curriculum, and a collaborative teaching and learning environment. One of its goals is to get students out of the class room and into the environment where they will study and learn
During the 2016-17 school year two teachers at Big Bear Elementary School experimented with the concepts of BearTech. The focus of their work was on the Pebble Plain between Moonridge and Sugar Loaf. Their work included two field trips funded by the Ed Trust. Students had a chance to learn about and study the plants and animals that live in the very unique environment that exists only in Big Bear Valley.
As with most innovative programs the first year is always a challenge. Many good educational goals were accomplished and many things were learned. The plan is that in the 2017-18 three teachers from Big Bear Elementary will integrate as many concepts as possible and BearTech will move to the next level of becoming a fully implemented program.
The ultimate goal is that this program will include studies of the many unique environments of our valley including the Pebble Plain, the forest, the lake, native people’s places and other features. One of the major goals of this program is to create in young people an understanding of Bear Valley’s unique environment; get them outside enjoying this environment and create a generation of young people who will become stewards of all nature.
