Biodiversity
Biodiversity refers to the range of organisms present in a given community at all levels—genetic, species, and ecosystem. San Francisco supports a wide array of habitats and ecological communities, which means that teachers and students do not have to travel far to learn about the amazing variety and complexity of the
natural world.

Place-based Learning
People protect what they know and love. By visiting parks, working in gardens and engaging in hands on exploration of local flora and fauna, young people gain an understanding and appreciation of their natural surroundings that translates into environmentally responsible behavior. This place-based approach leads to personal connections to the environment more than material/information delivererd solely in the classrooom.

Restoration and Stewardship
Students turn fragmented patches of land covered with asphalt and invasive exotic plants into thriving school gardens or havens for native plants, birds, animals, insects, and people. Restoring habitats and creating gardens provide excellent opportunities for students to learn about natural cycles in urban environments. And by participating in restoration and garden projects, students develop career interests, improve self-esteem, and develop a sense of stewardship and responsibility for the city’s parks and gardens.

Environmental Justice
Environmental justice affirms that all people have the right to live in a healthy environment with access to open space, natural areas, and fresh, locally grown foods. In addition, environmental justice teaches that everyone has an equal voice in determining what happens in their community on issues of health and the environment. SEEC-SF members are committed to providing all school-aged children and youth in San Francisco with opportunities to learn about and explore the natural world around them.