OWL

Mission Statement: OWL provides every student with the opportunity to experience education in unique and authentic ways. Students learn- by-doing from professionals in real-world settings. Learning is made meaningful through critical thinking, problem-solving and developing a connection to place.

Description: OWL is a week-long experiential science lab that takes place annually on the north slopes of the Grand Mesa. OWL is a joint partnership between Mesa County Valley School District 51 and Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW). OWL creates an authentic learning experience that challenges students to engage not only with the content and skills of the curriculum being taught, but with the complex world around them as well. This unique experience connects them to their learning, making it meaningful and lasting. They critically think, problem-solve, and learn-by-doing.

Characteristics:

• Standards-based
• Performance-based
• Cross-curricular
• STEM
• 21st Century Skills
• Growth Mindset/ Habits of Mind
• Leadership/ Communication
• College & high school counselors

Quotes:
I'm always out in nature so biology is fun for me since I’m learning about what I do.”

-Jared Green 

“While the wind was blowing, I could hear the river passing… My mind filled with lots of new and amazing things.”

-Ammy Inchuriagui

Community Partners:
Audubon Society, Camp Hope, Central High School, Charles W and Gaylene Grimsley, Colorado Mesa University, Colorado State University, Colorado Parks and Wildlife, Colorado State Forest Service, Encana, Kiwanis Club, Mesa County, MCVSD 51, Natural Resource Conservation Society, Outdoor Buddies, Saddle Mountain Ranch, Todd E. Braley Productions, Town of Palisade, Trout Unlimited, Two Way Communications, Ute Indian Museum, Ute Water Conservancy District