By Jessica Trumble, Pleasant Valley Middle School. (March 24, 2025) —
Pleasant Valley Middle School’s 6th-grade students are set to participate in a Science Field Day at the Sly Park Environmental Education Center on May 8, 2025. This event aims to enhance students’ understanding of environmental science through hands-on activities and outdoor exploration.
Located in Pollock Pines, the Sly Park Environmental Education Center is a residential facility operated by the Sacramento County Office of Education. Established in 1970, the center offers programs that cultivate environmental literacy through experiential and place-based learning, supporting the academic, social, and emotional growth of participants. slyparkcenter.org
The Science Field Day will feature forest hikes, interactive experiments, and team-building activities designed to deepen students’ connection to the natural world and foster a sense of community. These experiences are intended to complement classroom learning and promote personal growth.
“By coming together, we can ensure that rural students at PV experience elevated learning and personal growth,” said Jessica Trumble-Pitel, a 6th-grade Math and Science teacher at Pleasant Valley Middle School. “This event not only enhances academic learning but also creates a sense of belonging and community.”
To support this initiative, community members are encouraged to contribute through donations. Donations can be made via Venmo at Jessica-Trumble-Pitel or by mailing checks payable to Gold Oak Union School District with “Sly Park” noted in the memo line to:
Pleasant Valley Middle School
4120 Pleasant Valley Rd
Placerville, CA 95667California Department of Education
For more information about Pleasant Valley Middle School and its programs, visit gousd.k12.ca.us.
