Student Events

TCOE Student Events and the California State Standards

The California State Standards (CSS) were adopted by the State Board of Education in 2010. These focused and rigorous standards define the 21st Century knowledge and skills students need for success in college and career. The CSS call for an integrated curriculum that challenges students to think in complex ways and to apply the knowledge and skills they have acquired. Evidence of such learning can be demonstrated through the completion of a variety of assigned tasks, including TCOE Student Event activities.

TCOE has always promoted student event participation as an avenue to providing a well-rounded educational experience. Now, we are able to further emphasize the importance of student events by directly aligning them to our 21st century standards.

When applicable, TCOE Student Events are coded in one or both of the following manners:

• Alignment to the College and Career Readiness (CCR) Anchor Standards, Mathematical Practices (MP), Visual and Performing Arts (VAPA) Standards, and/or Science and Engineering Practices (SEP) in the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). CCR Anchor Standards, Mathematical Practices, Visual and Performing Arts Standards, and Science and Engineering Practices are listed in their entirety at this link.
• Identification of the type of task associated with the event:
  
  
  • Presentation: information is orally conveyed
  • Performance: a dramatic interpretation is included
  • Project: a product is produced prior to the day of the event
  • Problem Solving: a recommendation or solution is provided

Download the printed version of the 2017-2018 Student Events brochure.

Fall 2017 & Spring 2018
(Grades 3 - 12)
evenings, Circle J-Norris Ranch, Springville

Under the supervision of a team of local amateur astronomers, visitors learn to work the telescopes and guide them to view planets, star clusters and distant galaxies. Visitors also learn the ancient mythologies of the constellations and how to identify the stars that they contain.

September 22, 2017, 7:00 - 9:30 p.m.
October 20, 2017, 6:30 - 9:00 p.m.
November 9, 2017, 6:00 - 8:30 p.m.
March 15, 2018,7:00 - 9:30 p.m.

For more information and to reserve a spot, contact Nancy Bruce at circlej@ocsnet.net or call (559) 539-2263.

September 24, 2017
(Grade 6)
12:00 - 4:00 p.m., SCICON campus, Springville

SCICON staff hosts an open house each semester so that parents of sixth-grade students preparing for a trip to the outdoor education campus can tour the program. Families are welcome to bring picnic lunches. SCICON staff is on-hand to answer questions.

For more information, contact Dianne Shew at dshew@tcoe.org or call (559) 539-2642.

October 2017
(All Grades)
classrooms throughout the county

The Global Cardboard Challenge was inspired by the short film Caine's Arcade and is a worldwide celebration of childhood creativity and the role communities can play in fostering it. TCOE encourages Tulare County school districts to participate in the Challenge by providing curriculum and ideas for managing this creative time at school. Teachers are encouraged to indicate their intent to participate in the event so that TCOE staff might visit your school and help collect video or photos to share on its website. This Cardboard Challenge engages students in the 4Cs of 21st century learning: critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and communication.

For more information, contact Jared Marr at jared.marr@tcoe.org or call (559) 651-3047.

CSS CCR Anchor Standards:
Speaking and Listening 1 & 4;
CSS Mathematics Practices: 4, 5 & 6

October 2017 through April 2018
(Grades 6 - 8 and 9 - 12)

The Step Up Youth Challenge will take place over the course of the 2017-18 school year, providing an opportunity for 20 middle and 15 high school teams to complete a project that will have a positive impact on their school and community.

October 4, Youth Summit (training for student teams)
8:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., International Agri-Center, 4500 S. Laspina St., Tulare
Date TBA, Final project due
Date TBA, Red Carpet Awards Ceremony
6:00 p.m.,Fox Theater, 300 W. Main St., Visalia

Challenge Advisor Training, September 14, 4:00 - 7:00 p.m.
TCOE Administration Building, 6200 S. Mooney Blvd., Visalia

For more information, contact Rob Herman at robh@tcoe.org or call (559) 733-6606.

CSS CCR Anchor Standards:
Writing 1;
Speaking and Listening 4;
Project, Problem Solving, and Presentation

October 15 - 21, 2017
(All Grades)

In partnership with the Visalia Times-Delta / Tulare Advance-Register, this event is a week-long celebration of the principles of CHARACTER COUNTS!. Tulare County schools and communities participate by nominating students of good character. Top honorees will be featured throughout the week in the newspapers.

Nominations accepted September 1 through October 2 online at tcoe.org/KidsofCharacter.

November 2, Provident-Salierno Family Foundation Awards Reception
6:00 p.m., TCOE Administration Building & Conference Center, 6200 S. Mooney Blvd., Visalia

For more information, contact Kelley Petty at kelleyp@tcoe.org or call (559) 740-4303.

October 18, 2017
(All Grades)
3:00 - 6:00 p.m., Visalia Convention Center, 303 E. Acequia Ave., Visalia

Through a partnership between the Tulare County Office of Education, the Tulare County Health and Human Services Agency and a myriad of other county and city resources, the 2017 Red Ribbon Celebration event will allow students and families to participate in safe, educational and fun activities without the use of alcohol, tobacco or other drugs. In addition, the event will be a showcase of positive choices and opportunities for the youth of the Valley.

For more information, contact Adam Valencia at avalencia@tcoe.org or call (559) 651-0155, ext. 3611.

CSS CCR Anchor Standards:
Speaking and Listening 1, 2 & 3

October 20, 2017
(Grade 8)
Kearney Park, Fresno

Civil War Time Travelers is a tour of educational stations at the Civil War reenactment held at Kearney Park in Fresno. Up to 350 students from Tulare County are invited to visit with actors, view medical tents, sing at campfires, and learn about cannons and cavalry. The reenactment brings to life a time when the United States was faced with one of its greatest challenges. After the classes have visited the stations and returned to school, they must create and submit a newspaper article written from the point of view of that time period.

For more information, contact Gay Atmajian at gay.atmajian@tcoe.org or call (559) 651-3350.

CSS CCR Anchor Standards:
Speaking and Listening 1, 2 & 3;
Writing 4;
Project

October 24, 30 & November 1, 2017
(Grades 3 - 8)
October 24, 9:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m., L.J. Williams Theater, 1001 W. Main St., Visalia
October 30, 9:30 a.m., 10:45 a.m., Tulare Community Auditorium, 755 E. Tulare Ave., Tulare
November 1, 9:30 a.m., 11:00 a.m., Buck Shaffer Theater, 415 W. Olive Ave., Porterville

Now in its 58th year, the Young People's Concerts provide an opportunity for Tulare County students to attend a live orchestra performance, courtesy of the Tulare County Symphony. Concerts are held in Visalia, Tulare and Porterville.

For more information, contact Kate Stover at kate.stover@tcoe.org or call (559) 741-0809.

CSS CCR Anchor Standards:
Speaking and Listening 4;
CSS VAPA Standards: a, c, d & e

October 28, 2017
(Grades 9 - 12)
8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., Circle J-Norris Ranch, Springville

High school students work with university scientists and naturalists to complete studies on Circle J's vernal pools, native plant pollinators, oak forest ecology, pond turtles and birds. The event is designed to spark students' interest in conducting research and in engaging in ecological restoration, while considering careers in field science and conservation.

September 20, Teacher Informational meeting
3:30 p.m., Orangeworks Cafe, Highway 65, Strathmore

For more information, contact Nancy Bruce at circlej@ocsnet.net or call (559) 539-2263.

CSS SEP Standards: 1, 2, 3, 4 & 5

November 4, 2017
(Grades 4 - 10)
8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., College of the Sequoias, 915 S. Mooney, Visalia

This student event is for 4th- through 10th-grade young women. Its focus is to enlighten and spark an interest in careers for women in the STEM fields: Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. This conference will help young women discover how interesting and fun math and science can be, form personal contacts with women working in traditionally male occupations, and help them meet other young women interested in math and science.

For more information and to register, contact Katherine Goyette at katherine.goyette@tcoe.org or call (559) 651-3008.

CSS CCR Anchor Standards:
Speaking and Listening 1, 2 & 3;
CSS SEP Standards: 1, 2, 6 & 7

November 16 - 18, 2017, Elf, Jr.
(Grades 1-12)
November 16 - 18, 7:00 p.m.; November 18, 2:00 p.m.
L.J. Williams Theater, 1001 W. Main St., Visalia

The TCOE Theatre Company offers classes and performance opportunities to all Tulare County youth. Fall and Spring semester workshops culminate in a full-scale production. There are minimal course fees for classes and productions.

Special Schools-Only Performance - grades 6-12
November 17, 2017
9:30 a.m., L.J Williams Theater, 1001 W. Main St., Visalia

For more information, contact Bethany Rader at bethany.rader@tcoe.org or call (559) 651-1482 ext.3645.

CSS VAPA Standards: a, b, c, d & e;
Performance

November 2017 - March 29, 2018
(All Grades)
8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., TCOE Administration Building & Conference Center, 6200 S. Mooney, Visalia
November 20 - December 29, displaying school districts R-W
January 22 - February 23, displaying school districts A-P
March 1 - 29, Best of Show Exhibition
March 1, Best of Show Artists' Open House, 5:00 - 7:00 p.m., TCOE Administration Building & Conference Center, 6200 S. Mooney, Visalia

The annual Student Art Exhibitions showcase the county's talented young artists. From November through March, student artwork is displayed at the Tulare County Office of Education, and the public is invited to view the show. Entries are judged by local artists and those pieces receiving a Best of Show award are honored at a special reception in March during Arts Education Month.

View the flyer.

Download the Registration Packet.

For more information, contact Kate Stover at kate.stover@tcoe.org or call (559) 741-0809.

CSS VAPA Standards: a, b, c, d & e;
Project

December 2, 2017
(Grades 4 - 12)
8:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m., TCOE Administration Building & Conference Center, 6200 S. Mooney, Visalia

CyberQuest is a student event in which student teams must research a problem, create a multimedia presentation and then present to a panel of judges. Students utilize 21st century fluency skills to complete their entries."

October 2, Coaches Meeting
5:00 - 6:00 p.m., ERS Computer Lab, 7000 Doe Ave., Visalia

View video from the 2007 event. [.wmv file] [.mov file]

For more information, contact Katherine Goyette at katherine.goyette@tcoe.org or call (559) 651-3008.

CSS CCR Anchor Standards:
Writing 6 & 7;
Speaking and Listening 4;
Project, Problem Solving, and Presentation

December 2, 2017
9:00 a.m. - noon, Circle J-Norris Ranch, Springville

Students will use binoculars to learn the birding basics and how to recognize 20 common birds. This is training for those who want to participate in the Christmas Bird Count.

For more information and to reserve a spot, contact Nancy Bruce at circlej@ocsnet.net or call (559) 539-2263.

December 17, 2017
8:30 a.m. at SCICON and Circle J-Norris Ranch, Springville

Visitors will help with the annual Christmas Bird Count at the SCICON and Circle J-Norris Ranch campuses.

For more information and to reserve a spot, contact Nancy Bruce at circlej@ocsnet.net or call (559) 539-2263.

date TBA
(Grades 7 - 12)
6:00 - 8:00 p.m., TCOE Administration Building & Conference Center, 6200 S. Mooney Blvd., Visalia

Each year, Tulare County students in select schools hear the personal account of a World War II Holocaust survivor and have the opportunity to ask questions. The sessions are intended to enhance students' understanding of this horrific event. Additionally, TCOE will host an evening presentation for parents and community members.

For more information, contact Gay Atmajian at gay.atmajian@tcoe.org or call (559) 651-3350.

CSS CCR Anchor Standards:
Speaking and Listening 3

January 21, 2018
(Grade 6)
12:00 - 4:00 p.m., SCICON campus, Springville

SCICON staff hosts an open house each semester so that parents of sixth-grade students preparing for a trip to the outdoor education campus can tour the program. Families are welcome to bring picnic lunches. SCICON staff is on-hand to answer questions.

For more information, contact Dianne Shew at dshew@tcoe.org or call (559) 539-2642.

January 23, 25 & 30, February 1, 8 & 20, 2018
(Grades 9 - 12)

January 23, 25, 30, February 1, Competition Rounds
5:00 - 8:00 p.m., Tulare County Courthouse, Visalia
February 8, Semi-Final Rounds
5:00 - 8:00 p.m., Tulare County Courthouse, Visalia
February 20, Final Round
5:00 - 8:00 p.m., TCOE Administration Building & Conference Center, 6200 S. Mooney Blvd., Visalia

High school students throughout Tulare County learn about the content and processes of the law during Mock Trial competition. Through role-playing, studying a case, and preparing strategies and arguments for trial, students increase skills in public speaking, analytic ability, and team cooperation. Local attorneys serve as judges and advisors. Winners advance to the State Mock Trial Finals.

October 18, Coaches Meeting
5:00 - 6:00 p.m., Willow Room, 7000 Doe Ave., Visalia

For more information, contact Scott Pierce at scott.pierce@tcoe.org or call (559) 651-3031, Ext. 3363.

CSS CCR Anchor Standards:
Reading 1;
Writing 1;
Speaking and Listening 4;
Performance and Problem Solving

January 23, 27 & February 3, 2018
(Grades 9 - 12)

January 23, Online Essay Competitions
January 27, Interview and Speech Competitions
8:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., TCOE Administration Building & Conference Center, 6200 S. Mooney, Visalia
February 3, Testing, Super Quiz Relay and Awards Ceremony
8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., TCOE Administration Building & Conference Center, 6200 S. Mooney, Visalia

Academic Decathlon is a countywide student event for grades 9 through 12. It is part of the National Academic Decathlon competition. Schools field teams of up to nine members divided by thirds into Honors, Scholastic, and Varsity. Students compete in a series of 10 academic tests and demonstrations, including art, economics, a written essay, an interview, language and literature, math, music, social science, speech and a Super Quiz. Students compete in teams or as individuals. The winner in Tulare County competes at the state level; the state winner competes at the national level.

September 14, Coaches Meeting
5:00 - 6:00 p.m., Sycamore Room, 7000 Doe Ave., Visalia

November 14, 2017, Scrimmage
Elderwood Room, 7000 Doe Ave., Visalia

For more information, contact Cari Carlson at cari.carlson@tcoe.org or call (559) 651-3350.

CSS CCR Anchor Standards:
Reading 1;
Writing 2 & 9;
Speaking and Listening 5;
CSS Mathematics Practices: 1;
Problem Solving and Performance

February 7, 2018
(Grades 9 - 12)
6:00 - 8:00 p.m., TCOE Administration Building & Conference Center, 6200 S. Mooney, Visalia

The Tulare County Office of Education is proud to introduce the Poetry out Loud competition. Sponsored by the National Endowment for the Arts, the National Poetry Foundation, and the California Arts Council, Poetry Out Loud inspires high school students to discover and appreciate poetry through a combination of memorization, performance, and competition. This program helps students master public speaking skills, build self-confidence, and improve English fluency and comprehension. The Poetry Out Loud program begins with classroom and school-wide competitions, with winners advancing to county, state, and national competitions. Through Poetry Out Loud, the Tulare County Office of Education encourages students to study and appreciate poetry through practice, performance, and competition.

For more information, contact Kate Stover at kate.stover@tcoe.org or call (559) 741-0809.

CSS CCR Anchor Standards:
Reading 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 & 6;
Speaking and Listening 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 & 6;
Language 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 & 6;
CSS VAPA Standards: a, b, c, d & e;
Performance

February 14, 2018
(Grade 6)
9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., Wyndham Visalia, 9000 W. Airport Dr.

Students participate in a game show-style competition, answering questions on topics including the tobacco industry and the health effects of smoking. The event gives students valuable information about the dangers of tobacco – before they enter middle school and are presented with the temptation to smoke.

For more information, contact Adam Valencia at avalencia@tcoe.org or call (559) 651-0155, ext. 3611.

CSS CCR Anchor Standards:
Speaking and Listening 1;
Reading 1 & 4;
CSS SEP Standards: 1, 3, 6 & 8

February 16, 2018
(Grades 4 - 12)
8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., TCOE Administration Building & Conference Center, 6200 S. Mooney, Visalia

For over 15 years, the Tulare County Office of Education has hosted National History Day - Tulare County. The event is an exciting, history-based competition. Fourth through twelfth grade students learn about issues, ideas, people and events in history, and then illustrate what they have learned with creative and original productions.

National History Day - Tulare County is coordinated with the National and California State History Days. Each year, a broad theme is selected at the national level to encompass local, state, American and world history entries. The theme gives a central focus to the work of all participants and provides a common "yardstick" by which the quality of research and understanding may be judged. Locally, over 200 students participate in the History Day competition held in March. The top competitors from each event and division advance to the National History Day - California.

October 25, Coaches Meeting
4:30 -6:00 p.m., Multipurpose Room, 7000 Doe Ave., Visalia

For more information, contact Gay Atmajian at gay.atmajian@tcoe.org or call (559) 651-3350.

CSS CCR Anchor Standards:
Writing 3, 4 & 5;
Speaking and Listening 3;
Project, Presentation, and Performance

February 21, 2018
(Grades 4 - 8)
8:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m., Visalia Convention Center, 303 E. Acequia Ave., Visalia

Students in grades 4-8 face off in a public, oral spelling competition. Schools hold their own spelling bees and select two students to attend the county-wide championship. The county champion has the opportunity to go on to the National Spelling Bee in Washington, D.C.

For more information, contact Nancy Bellin at nancyb@tcoe.org or call (559) 733-6734.

CSS CCR Anchor Standards:
Speaking and Listening 2 & 4

March 3, 2018
(Grades 6 - 12)
Division B (grades 6-9) / Division C (grades 9 - 12)
8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Mission Oak High School, 3442 E. Bardsley Ave., Tulare

Science Olympiad is an international non-profit organization devoted to improving the quality of science education, increasing student interest in science, and providing recognition for outstanding achievement in science education by both students and teachers. Science Olympiad tournaments are rigorous academic interscholastic competitions that consist of a series of individual and team events for which students prepare throughout the year. These events are balanced between the various science disciplines of biology, earth science, chemistry, physics and technology. There is also a balance between science facts, process, skills and applications. Locally, over 550 students from more than 25 schools compete in the annual regional competition. The Science Olympiad is divided up into three divisions: Division A (grades 3 - 6), Division B (grades 6 - 9), and Division C (grades 9 - 12).

Individual and team awards are presented with the top four teams in the B and C divisions advancing to the NorCal State Science competition.

September 13, Coaches Meeting
5:00 - 6:00 p.m., Willow Room, 7000 Doe Ave., Visalia

View a video of the 2010 event (.wmv)

For more information, Jared Marr at jared.marr@tcoe.org or call (559) 651-3047.

CSS CCR Anchor Standards:
Reading 1, 2 & 10;
Writing 2 & 7;
CSS SEP Standards: 1-8;
Project and Problem Solving

March 10, 2018
(Grades 3 - 12)
8:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., TCOE Planetarium & Science Center, 11535 Avenue 264, Visalia

The STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) Expo will allow students, families, and community members to participate in a variety of STEM-related activities. Students in grades 3-12 may participate in the science and engineering fair portion of the event. The top winners in this competition (grades 6-12) qualify for the California Science and Engineering Fair. Featured speakers, informational booths, and hands-on activities will be available throughout the day.

For more information, contact Jared Marr at jared.marr@tcoe.org or call (559) 651-3047 or Nicole Ray at nicole.ray@tcoe.org.

CSS CCR Anchor Standards:
Reading 1, 2, 4 & 7-10;
Speaking & Listening 1-6;
Writing 1, 2 & 4-10;
CSS SEP Standards: 1-8;
Problem Solving, Project, and Presentation

March 13, 15, 16, 20, 21 & 22, 2018
(Grades K - 8)
9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m., TCOE Administration Building & Conference Center, 6200 S. Mooney, Visalia

Students present poetry to an audience and judges at this county-wide oral interpretation event. Oral and written assessments are offered to each student, along with personalized certificates denoting their rank of Superior, Excellent, Very Good and Good.

For more information, contact Nancy Bellin at nancyb@tcoe.org or call (559) 733-6734.

CSS CCR Anchor Standards:
Reading 4 & 5;
Speaking and Listening 6;
Performance

April 6, 2018
(Grades 9 - 12)
8:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., College of the Sequoias Visalia and Tulare campuses

Held on the College of the Sequoias' Visalia campus, the Tulare-Kings College and Career EXPO provides an opportunity for all Tulare and Kings County high school students to participate in career-themed competitions with peers from schools across the region. The event focuses on college and career awareness and exploration as students demonstrate and apply their industry knowledge and 21st century skills.

For more information, contact Joy Soares at joy.soares@tcoe.org or call (559) 733-6101.

CSS CCR Anchor Standards:
Speaking & Listening 1, 2, 4, 5 & 6;
Writing 1-9;
Problem Solving, Project and Presentation;
Various Career Technical Education Model Curriculum Standards specific to Industry Sector

April 9 - 13, 2018
(Grades K - 8)
8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., TCOE Administration Building & Conference Center, 6200 S. Mooney, Visalia
Books due March 23, 2018

April 12, 2018 , Reception
4:30 - 6:30 p.m., TCOE Administration Building & Conference Center, 6200 S. Mooney, Visalia

Young Authors' Faire offers budding writers in grades K-12 an opportunity to have their books read by others. The books, which are written by students, are on display for a week in the TCOE Conference Center in Visalia. Visitors are invited to read and comment on the books. This event always has a great response. An evening reception is held so that the public can meet the young authors and help them celebrate in their success.

For more information, contact Debra Lockwood at debra.lockwood@tcoe.org or call (559) 651-3042.

CSS CCR Anchor Standards:
Writing 3;
Language 1 & 2;
Project and Performance

April 11, 2018
(Grades 7 - 8)
8:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., Visalia Convention Center, 303 E. Acequia Ave., Visalia

This student event is for 7th-8th grade students throughout Tulare County. Over 700 students participate in the day-long series of mathematics challenges. Students work with members of other schools to solve one open-ended problem in the Pro Bowl test, which is evaluated against a rubric. They also work with members of their own team to solve 15 free-answer questions in the Team Bowl. The Power Bowl challenges students individually with 35 enhanced multiple-choice questions. Awards are given to students in both large and small school categories. Ribbons, medallions and trophies are awarded for excellent mathematical performances.

View a video of the 2010 event. (.wmv file)

For more information, contact Julie Joseph at julie.joseph@tcoe.org or call (559) 651-3641.

CSS Mathematics Practices: 1, 2, 3, 5, 6 & 7;
Problem Solving

April 13, 2018
(Grades 6 - 12)
6:00 - 9:00 p.m., Visalia Convention Center, 303 E. Acequia Ave., Visalia

Dozens of middle and high school performers annually vie for awards in four categories: dance, lip sync, novelty and showcase. Friday Night Live provides youth with fun, life-affirming activities promoting abstinence from alcohol, tobacco, drugs, gang participation and violence.

For more information, contact Adam Valencia at avalencia@tcoe.org or call (559) 651-0155, ext. 3611.

CSS VAPA Standards: a, b & d;
Performance

April 15, 2018
(All ages)
11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., SCICON campus, Springville

Each spring, SCICON opens its beautiful campus in the Sierra foothills above Springville to the public for a day of free tours, activities and entertainment. The program also sells tickets for a delicious barbecue luncheon. Proceeds benefit the SCICON program. All ages are welcome.

For more information, contact Dianne Shew at dshew@tcoe.org or call (559) 539-2642.

April 17, 2018
(Grades 7 - 12)
8:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Visalia Convention Center

This web-based competition is for middle and high school students to research and create a project online in four hours. Students can choose to create an interactive poster, animated presentation, infographic, iMovie book trailers, Google map trips, and more. Students will have an opportunity to showcase their work at the Night at the 21st Century Museum event that same day.

For more information, contact Katherine Goyette at katherine.goyette@tcoe.org or call (559) 651-3008.

CSS CCR Anchor Standards:
Writing 2 & 6-8;
Speaking and Listening 2, 4 & 5;
CSS SEP Standards: 1, 2 & 5

April 17, 2018
(All Grades)
5:00 - 7:00 p.m., Visalia Convention Center Exhibit Hall, 303 E. Acequia Ave., Visalia

Celebrate the rigorous and relevant Project Based Learning that is taking place in Tulare County. This unique museum experience will feature both quality exhibits and the outstanding students who created them. Docents (student participants) will showcase and expand their 21st Century skills of creativity, critical thinking, collaboration and communication as they share their projects with the public. The museum tour will include opportunities to view short presentations by student docents and allow the public to engage with students, teachers and community partners in this uplifting and inspiring evening.

For more information, contact Kate Stover at kate.stover@tcoe.org or call (559) 741-0809.

CSS CCR Anchor Standards:
Writing 7, 8 & 9;
Speaking and Listening 5;
CSS VAPA Standards: a, b, c, d & e;
Problem Solving and Project

Essays due April 18, 2018
(Grades 6 - 12)

Foundations for Life is a national, maxim-based essay contest for middle and high school students to reflect upon, express, and commit to profound and enduring truths. Locally, schools enter their student's best essays in the annual Tulare County competition. One Tulare County student in each grade level will receive a cash prize.

For more information, contact Tim Budz at tim.budz@tcoe.org or call (559) 651-3046.

CSS CCR Anchor Standards:
Writing 1, 2, 4 & 10;
Language 1, 2 & 3

April 19, 2018
(Grades 3 - 5)
9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., Mooney Grove Park, Visalia

Arbor Day Celebration is a hands-on student event provided to all 3rd - 5th grade students in Tulare County. This late spring event provides the opportunity for students to learn about the importance and care of our trees in the environment. Students who participate will experience environmental lessons within Mooney Grove Park. Local environmental experts conduct these fun-filled, activity-based lessons. Students will get the opportunity to tour the County museum and learn about the rich history of our valley. Each class will help plant a tree at Mooney Grove for the restoration of the park. Each student will not only learn how to plant trees properly, but will be given their very own tree to take home and plant with their Mother in celebration of Mother's day!

Teachers get to have fun celebrating with their students, participating in the environmental lessons conducted by skilled gardeners. Each teacher will receive materials with information on trees and environmental education that aligns to state science standards.

Traditionally the National Arbor Day, founded by J. Sterling Morton in Nebraska in 1872, is celebrated each year on the last Friday in April. The Tulare County Arbor Day Celebration is held in early May to accommodate schools involved in the California STAR testing.

View a video of the 2008 event [.wmv] [.mov]

For more information, contact Jared Marr at jared.marr@tcoe.org or call (559) 651-3047.

CSS CCR Anchor Standards:
Speaking and Listening 1, 2 & 3;
CSS SEP Standards: 1, 3, 6 & 8

April 19 - 21, 2018, Production TBA
(Grades 1-12)
April 19 - 21, 7:00 p.m.; April 21, 2:00 p.m.
El Diamante Theater, 5100 W. Whitendale Ave., Visalia

The TCOE Theatre Company offers classes and performance opportunities to all Tulare County youth. Fall and Spring semester workshops culminate in a full-scale production. There are minimal course fees for classes and productions.

For more information, contact Bethany Rader at bethany.rader@tcoe.org or call (559) 651-1482 ext.3645.

CSS VAPA Standards: a, b, c, d & e;
Performance

April 21, 2018
(Grades 4 - 12)
9:00 a.m. - noon, Circle J-Norris Ranch, Springville

Join us as students and scientists explore, discover and document insects, plants, and other wildlife living at Circle J Ranch. Upload discoveries using the iNaturalist App to show the world what you found!

For more information, contact Nancy Bruce at circlej@ocsnet.net or call (559) 539-2263.

CSS SEP Standards: 1, 2, 3, 4 & 5

April 28, 2018
(Grades 3 - 6)
8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., Mission Oak High School, 3442 E. Bardsley Ave., Tulare

Science Olympiad is an international non-profit organization devoted to improving the quality of science education, increasing student interest in science, and providing recognition for outstanding achievement in science education by both students and teachers. Science Olympiad tournaments are rigorous academic interscholastic competitions that consist of a series of individual and team events for which students prepare throughout the year. These events are balanced between the various science disciplines of biology, earth science, chemistry, physics and technology. There is also a balance between science facts, process, skills and applications. Locally, over 550 students from more than 25 schools compete in the annual regional competition. The Science Olympiad is divided up into three divisions: Division A (grades 3 - 6), Division B (grades 6 - 9), and Division C (grades 9 - 12).

October 5, Coaches Meeting
5:00 - 6:00 p.m., Multipurpose Room, 7000 Doe Ave., Visalia

View a video of the 2010 event (.wmv)

For more information, contact Jared Marr at jared.marr@tcoe.org or call (559) 651-3047.

CSS CCR Anchor Standards:
Reading 1, 2, 4 & 7-10;
Writing 1, 2 & 4-10;
Speaking & Listening 1-6;
CSS SEP Standards: 1-8;
Project and Problem Solving

May 4, 2018
(Grades 4 - 12)
9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m., TCOE Administration Building & Conference Center, 6200 S. Mooney, Visalia

Students and teams showcase the robots that they have built. Robots are constructed and programmed using various kits and software. Students are not restricted to any one kit or design and can use any technology available. Students display their imagination and innovation in an array of events.

For more information, contact Doug Cairns at doug.cairns@tcoe.org or call (559) 651-3045.

CSS CCR Anchor Standards:
Reading 1, 2, 7, 8 & 10;
Writing 2, 3, 4, 6, 7 & 9;
CSS Mathematics Practices: 1, 2, 5 & 6;
CSS SEP Standards: 1, 2 & 5;
Project and Problem Solving

May 9, 2018
(Grades 6 - 8)
10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m., Porterville Fairgrounds, 2700 W. Teapot Dome Ave., Porterville

Tulare and Kings County middle school students head to the Porterville Fair armed with worksheets, calculators and accelerometers for lessons in physics.

View a video of the 2007 event [.wmv] [.mov]

Space is limited! Register today!

For more information, contact Jared Marr at jared.marr@tcoe.org or call (559) 651-3047.

CSS CCR Anchor Standards:
Speaking and Listening 1;
Language 1 & 6;
CSS SEP Standards: 1-8

May 11, 2018
(Grades 7 - 12)
9:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m., Visalia Fox Theater, 300 W. Main St., Visalia

The Slick Rock competition provides the opportunity for middle and high school students to submit videos they have created. The best videos will receive an award and be presented to the public at the film festival. Some videos may also be aired on television.

For more information, contact Adam Valencia at avalencia@tcoe.org or call (559) 651-0155, ext. 3611.

CSS CCR Anchor Standards:
Speaking and Listening 4 & 5;
Writing 5;
CSS VAPA Standards: a, b, c, d & e;
Project

May 11, 2018
(Grades 4 - 6)
8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., TCOE Doe campus, 7000 Doe Ave., Visalia

To promote literacy and the joy of reading, Reading Revolution is open to teams of upper elementary school students. The teams will answer questions drawn from a limited list of titles released in the fall. Following school-wide competitions, schools send their top team to participate at the county event.

For more information, contact Debra Lockwood at debra.lockwood@tcoe.org or call (559) 651-3042.

CSS CCR Anchor Standards:
Reading 1, 2, 6 & 10

May 18, 2018
(Grades 7 - 8)
8:30 a.m. - 1:15 p.m., TCOE Doe campus, 7000 Doe Ave., Visalia

To promote literacy and the joy of reading, Reading Revolution is open to teams of middle school students. The teams will answer questions drawn from a limited list of titles released in the fall. Following school-wide competitions, schools send their top team to participate at the county event.

For more information, contact Debra Lockwood at debra.lockwood@tcoe.org or call (559) 651-3042.

CSS CCR Anchor Standards:
Reading 1, 2, 6 & 10

June 2018 - Date TBA
(Grades 1-6)
Monday-Friday, 9:00 - 11:00 a.m., TCOE Doe campus, 7000 Doe Ave., Visalia

Elementary students are invited to participate in a three-week summer camp designed to strengthen their vocal, acting and dance skills. Students rehearse Monday - Friday, 9:00 - 11:00 a.m. The summer camp culminates with a production of the selected musical for parents and family members.

For more information, contact Bethany Rader at bethany.rader@tcoe.org or call (559) 651-1482 ext.3645.

July 20 - 28, 2018, Production TBA
(Grades 1-12, including graduating seniors)
July 20 - 21, July 26 - 28, 7:30 p.m.; July 21, 28, 2:00 p.m.
L.J. Williams Theater, 1001 W. Main St., Visalia

The Theatre Company offers classes and performance opportunities to all Tulare County youth. Fall and Spring semester workshops culminate in a full-scale production. There are minimal course fees for classes and productions.

For more information, contact Bethany Rader at bethany.rader@tcoe.org or call (559) 651-1482 ext.3645.

CSS VAPA Standards: a, b, c, d & e;
Performance

Ongoing Programs

(Grades K- 14)

An outdoor campus located near SCICON, Circle J provides a wide range of field study options for grades K-12, as well as community college students. Programs are designed to expand appreciation of the environmental and aesthetic values of the outdoors and to increase understanding of the relationship between humans and nature.

Reservations required.

For more information, contact Nancy Bruce at circlej@ocsnet.net or call (559) 539-2263.

(Grades K- 8)

A multimedia facility designed to provide unique and exciting learning experiences which supplement and reinforce the classroom curriculum, the Sam B. Peña Planetarium and Science Center offers a variety of programs throughout the school year at no cost to Tulare County students. Out-of-county schools may visit for a small fee.

Reservations required.

For a listing of programs and shows, including evening public shows, call (559) 737-6334 or visit tcoe.org/planetarium.

(Grades 5- 6)

SCICON is the nationally-recognized outdoor science and conservation school located above Springville. Fifth- and sixth-grade students visit for one-day or week-long experiences in natural science and conservation. Students also experience SCICON's natural history museum, raptor center, planetarium and observatory, and tree nursery.

Reservations required.

For more information, visit tcoe.org/SCICON or contact Dianne Shew at dshew@tcoe.org or call (559) 539-2642.

(Grades K- 8)

The Theatre Company provides the directors and all the resources a school needs – including costumes, props and backdrops – to produce a 35-minute musical involving up to 50 students. The well-known children's musicals offered are ideal for after-school programs, fundraisers and more.

For more information, contact Bethany Rader at bethany.rader@tcoe.org or call (559) 651-1482.

(Grades K- 12)

Located within the Tulare County History of Farm Labor & Agriculture Museum in Visalia's Mooney Grove Park, this 60-seat theater offers a variety of TCOE-produced videos on the various ethnic groups that settled in Tulare County to farm and ranch. Featured ethnic groups include Armenian, African American, Dust Bowl Migrants, Mexican, Native American, Japanese, Portuguese, Croation, Italian, and – by the end of August 2015 – Dutch. The museum also offers an orientation video, which gives an overview of Tulare County history. One version of the video is suited for students K-6, while another was developed for grades 7-12 and adult groups. Teachers are encouraged to contact museum staff to schedule visits.

For more information, contact Amy King at aking1@co.tulare.ca.us or call (559) 733-6616.

September 12, 2017
(Grades 9-12)
5:30 - 8:00 p.m., Visalia Convention Center, 303 E. Acequia Ave., Visalia

In early September each year, the Tulare County Office of Education hosts Tulare County College Night. Hundreds of high school students from throughout Tulare and surrounding counties attend to meet college and university representatives from around the country. Representatives from national trade, art and specialty institutions also attend.

College Night also features a variety of informational seminars, both in English and Spanish, on topics ranging from the application process and financial aid to foreign exchange opportunities and transfering credits.

For more information, contact Joy Soares at joy.soares@tcoe.org or call (559) 651-6101.

CSS CCR Anchor Standards:
Speaking and Listening 1 & 3, 5 & 6

September 20, 2017
(Grades 6 - 8)
8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., Elderwood Room, 7000 Doe Ave., Visalia

This event is a training session for middle school students identified as campus leaders. Selected students learn how to engage fellow classmates in activities that encourage healthy choices and how to implement their training at school.

For more information, contact Tony Cavanagh at tcavanag@tcoe.org or call (559) 651-0155, ext. 3614.

CSS CCR Anchor Standards:
Speaking and Listening 1;
Writing 4 & 8;
Project and Problem Solving