Empowering the next generation of students in the South Platte Watershed to protect and evolve our water resources using standards-based STEAM applications.
Overview
The WWP primarily targets teachers and students in grades 3-12. Despite its complexity, water science should be accessible to students at all levels. The questions students ask and the investigations they undertake vary based on their existing knowledge. We have integrated essential background information into the curriculum to empower every student to explore more advanced inquiries. Our aim with WWP is to offer students real-world science experiences and the opportunity to share their findings with peers and scientists. This unique opportunity sets WWP apart from many other science projects. We collaborate closely with teachers, providing workshops and support, recognizing that teachers are already overwhelmed with their regular responsibilities. Our close partnership with educators and surrounding environmental organizations is key to the success of our students.
Our Well Watch team is dedicated to providing students and teachers in the South Platte Watershed with a comprehensive and scaffolded experience in water science. We’re grateful for our team of engaging experts who make learning fun for our students!
Meet Josiah Flores (He/Him – Él), our Well Watch Coordinator. With a BS in Psychology from UNCo, his passion for water goes beyond coordinating the program. You can find him brewing tea or admiring whale sharks!Meet Sam Luby, our enthusiastic Ambassador. With a BS in Biology from Roanoke College and an MPH from Colorado School of Public Health, Sam enjoys kayaking and seeing manatees!Meet Kennedy Dechant, our eco-conscious Ambassador, studying sustainability at UNCo. She helps solve fashion’s environmental impact and enjoys waterside reading with frog friends.Meet Mike Petraglia, our esteemed Ambassador. With degrees in Environmental Biology and Teaching, Mike explores river macroinvertebrates and adores baby otters.Meet Abbey Shaneyfelt, our creative Ambassador and Lead PLC Ambassador! With a BS in Human Dimensions of Natural Resources from CSU and a minor in Spanish, Abbey’s passion for water shines through, from peaceful waterside moments to admiring a good old mallard.Meet Sami Wolniakowski, our versatile Ambassador and PLC Curriculum Specialist. With a BA in Education and an MS in Natural Science in Environmental Education, Sami enjoys wakeboarding and marvels at dragonflies, embodying her love for water.Meet Ivonne Morales (She/Her – Ella), our dedicated Ambassador and PLC Program Specialist. Her CU Boulder background in Environmental Studies and Sociology fuels her nature appreciation, from the sound of flowing water to the sight of painted turtles.Meet Courtney Sandoval, our confident Ambassador! With a Bachelor’s in Environmental Science from UNCo and a Graduate Certificate in Applied Global Stability from CSU, her love for water includes wake surfing and cherishing turtles.
