4-H Water Wizards: Lessons Learned for Effective Afterschool Science Programming

The University of California 4-H Youth Development Program created the Water Wizards project in response to two related issues: need for high-quality science education programming afterschool settings, and desire foster a citizenry that understands can make informed decisions about water. In collaboration with program staff, Sacramento County implemented 12-week water children grades four through six. We evaluated over years (2012–2016) utilizing pretest-posttest study design evaluation surveys from participants staff. Our findings indicate positive outcomes both staff who delivered participated program. Afterschool gained competence delivering hands-on inquiry-based programming. Fourth- fifth-grade students demonstrated small but significant knowledge gain Students also increased awareness issues conservation behavior. discuss our groups share insights promising practices when collaborating providers, especially relating importance challenge settings.