Step 1: Students are introduced to the Storm Water Challenge, including the concept of storm water management and it's importance for protecting property (flooding), the environment (habitats), and human health (water resources). Students will explore how civil engineering and environmental science are important fields in managing storm water. This initial exploration can be teacher led, SD1 led, or achieved through student inquiry using the program site. A school walkabout to visualize how water moves around campus and how storm water is currently managed onsite is recommended. Frequently, the SD1 Storm Water Challenge coordinator is invited in to kick this step off with students.
Step 2: Students visit SD1's Public Service Park to learn firsthand about Best Management Practices (BMPs) around storm water. SD1 will also have a breakout session to practice the engineering math formulas involved in the project.
Step 3: Students work on their Storm Water BMP research and project proposals individually or in teams. They are encouraged to reach out directly to SD1's Storm Water Challenge coordinator for additional support from an SD1 engineer or environmental scientist if they have questions or curiosities along the way.
Step 4: Students present project proposals in class. The top proposals are selected to present to a panel of school administration for implementation consideration. This is also great exposure to executive presentation.