Girls* on Rock program, a 12-day wilderness science expedition, empowers high school youth—cisgender girls, transgender, nonbinary, and genderqueer youth—through hands-on research, outdoor skills, and creative expression. Fully funded by the NSF in 2024, the program allows participants to conduct field research in Colorado’s alpine environment while learning rock climbing, survival skills, and teamwork. It combines science with art, fostering personal growth, confidence, and leadership. Participants gain valuable experiences that help them overcome barriers to science and outdoor education, with the program’s ongoing evaluation ensuring continuous improvement and long-term impact. Read more about it on the CIRES website.

"We are Water" brings a traveling exhibit and interactive programs to rural, Latinx, and Indigenous communities in the Four Corners Region of the U.S. and engages community members in conversations about their personal and community connections to local water topics. Libraries in rural areas, which often function as the local science center, will host the exhibit, programs, and STEM experiences in their communities. Starting Saturday, July 13th, Mesa County Libraries will host the traveling exhibition "We are Water: Connecting Communities." Read more on the KJCT website.

The Education Career Action Plan (ECAP) is a statewide initiative designed to guide middle school students in mapping out their academic and career pathways. By helping students explore their interests, define their career goals, and plan their coursework accordingly, ECAP encourages them to take ownership of their future. The program fosters a sense of purpose by linking educational choices with real-world opportunities, ensuring students are better prepared for high school, postsecondary education, and the workforce. To motivate students and keep them engaged in the ECAP process, an incentivized component has been introduced. This rewards students who complete or stay on track with their ECAP goals, making the planning process more interactive and rewarding. For example, in January, as part of this incentive program, students had the opportunity to visit the "We Are Water" exhibit on a field trip. Read more about it on the Lake Powell Chronicle website.