Our Mission

Our Vision

Youth Science Institute (YSI) will address today’s science education crisis by filling the gap that is present in primary and secondary education today. In ten years, we will increase the number of Santa Clara County students we reach from 10% of the population to 50%. We will be the primary voice regionally for the importance of science education. We will train classroom teachers to be skilled at and comfortable with teaching science.

YSI, an independent not-for-profit organization, is a leader in nature-based science education, engaging 30,000 pre-school through high school students annually in the wonders of science. In our 53 year history, more than one million children have experienced the excitement of a YSI program.

YSI focuses on hands-on learning of life sciences, physical sciences and social sciences, including biology, chemistry, physics, geology and astronomy. Programs are conducted at its three Science and Nature Centers in Vasona, Sanborn and Alum Rock parks, in schools and at community events. Centers feature live mammals, birds, insects, amphibians and reptiles in some combination.

YSI’s science education methods develop the critical thinking skills that are necessary for a child’s academic success, which ultimately impacts his or her opportunity for economic success. In addition, YSI programs help children understand and appreciate the delicate interrelationships between themselves and the world around them. This inspires them to be involved citizens, developing their capacity to contribute to their local community and the health of the planet.