SBC’s Schoolyard LTER (SLTER) program is organized around a theme of watershed ecology. This approach allows for an integrated program that includes K-12 students, K-12 teachers, undergraduate and graduate students.  In 2009 we focused on developing long-term connections with local, regional and state middle and junior high schools through a partnership with American Association of University Women (AAUW) - Tech Trek Program. Tech Trek is a math/science camp designed to develop interest, excitement and self-confidence in young women who will enter eighth grade in the fall. It features hands-on activities in math, science and related fields.  During their week-long residential immersion at UCSB students participate in “core” courses that focus on science basics; physics, math, chemistry and biology. These courses are then complimented with practical application activities where students are engaged in SBC LTER research-based learning activities, conduct field research/monitoring exercises, and explore multiple aspects of watershed system and oceanographic functions as they influence kelp forest ecology. Activities include; explorations of ecology and adaptation at the UCSB aquarium, SBC LTER research site monitoring protocols, and a Floating Lab trip into the Santa Barbara Channel.  This program is also involved in a cross-site education research program lead by KBS SLTER and in collaboration with the SGS and BES Schoolyard programs to examine learning about the water cycle in middle and high school-aged students.  Data from pre/post assessment show efficacy of program.