Making Hands-On Science More Accessible Since 2014

At Headwaters, we believe every kid deserves access to fun and engaging science education. Through our Student Driven Research process, students design and run their own experiments (at school, in the field, and online), building the confidence and curiosity to become tomorrow’s problem-solvers.

For Students & Parents:

We offer summer camps (day and overnight options), virtual research experiences, and 1-on-1 mentoring for students in grades K-12 who want to dig deeper into science outside the classroom. Financial assistance is available so every kid can take part!

Summer Camps
Outdoor day and overnight camps across Tahoe, Truckee, and the East Bay for ages 5–15. Kids explore water, wildlife, and ecology through hands-on field investigation. Explore Summer Camps
Headwaters Research Experience
A virtual, semester-long program where high schoolers design an original research project with a professional scientist mentor and see it all the way through to a published paper. Explore Research Experience
Science Mentors
One-on-one mentoring with a professional scientist for grades 6–12, built around science fair projects, coursework help, or building research skills. Purchased in hour blocks, tailored to your student’s needs. Explore Mentors
WWCUSD Programs

Headwaters partners with West Contra Costa Unified School District to offer free, hands-on summer science camps for local TK–6th grade students. Families register individually. Explore WWCUSD Programs

For Educators:

We partner with schools to bring low-cost, NGSS-aligned research programs to your classroom or field site, from single-day Field Days to multi-day research intensives. We also train teachers to bring Student Driven Research into their own classrooms year-round.

Multi-Day Programs

A 3-day or 5-day in-depth research program where your students design, run, and present an original field research project right on your campus or nearby. Programs are available for elementary through high school students. Explore Multi-Day Programs

Single Day Programs

A single, action-packed day of hands-on field research at your school or nearby field sites. Perfect for classes wanting the full scientific method experience in a shorter timeframe. Programs are available for elementary through high school students. Explore Field Days

Overnight Programs

A 3-day immersive research trip to our Donner Summit field site, where students design and carry out original research in a true wilderness setting. Programs are available for elementary through high school students. Explore Overnight Programs

Teaching Resources

Free science curriculum guides, our Lunch With a Scientist video series connecting students with real scientists, and professional development workshops for teachers who want to bring student-driven research into their own classrooms.

We offer financial assistance: to learn more, email info@headwatersscienceinstitute.org
Headwaters Science Institute is a 501(c)3 nonprofit corporation
Website Developed by TheMikeBarra

Headwaters Science Institute is a 501(c)3 nonprofit corporation

Website Developed by TheMikeBarra