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Environmental based science education nonprofit

About The Youth Science Institute

Featured Supporters

Who We Are

The Youth Science Institute (YSI) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to igniting a love of learning and enthusiasm for science. Since 1953, YSI has been a leader in hands-on, nature-based science education throughout the Bay Area.

Our Mission

Inspiring enthusiasm for science and a love of learning in children, families, and communities.
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Our Approch

Approaches We Follow

Engaging Programs

We offer School and Group Programs, Summer Science Camps, weekend events, and annual community events

Interactive Learning

Our activities include live animals, nature hikes, and inquiry-based science education across multiple disciplines.

Community Impact

Annually, we introduce nearly 30,000 students from PreK to sixth grade to the wonders of science

Locations

Our Locations

Visit us at one of our three locations. We look forward to seeing you!

Our Staff

Meet The YSI Team

Dan Gross

Executive Director

Allyson Dudzinski

Education Manager

Olivia Kramer

Community Engagment &
Program Manager

Alex Schord

Lead Animal Curator

Jack Smestad

Lead Science Education Instructor

Emma Madden

Education and Community Outreach Coordinator

Leisa Johnson

Science Education Ambassador & Animal Curator

Gabriella Udelhoven

Science Education Instructor

Karizma Chavez

Science Education Instructor

Sean McCullough

Science Education Instructor

Shane Machover

Science Education Instructor

Shoshana Reedy

Science Education Instructor

Caroline Terry

Science Education Instructor

See Our Staff In Action