Staff Spotlight: Sam Matlock

In addition to their eighth grade outdoor school program, Sam’s connection to NatureBridge extends beyond their own student experience. Growing up with a parent who works for the Mariposa school district, Sam witnessed firsthand the opportunities NatureBridge provided to students who otherwise might never have explored Yosemite. “I grew up with a lot of students who had never been to Yosemite because they didn’t have the resources,” Sam notes.

After completing their degree in liberal studies at Arizona State University, Sam knew they wanted to pursue a teaching career—but they were also drawn to opportunities that would take them beyond the traditional classroom. Recalling their transformative experience as a NatureBridge student, Sam reached out to a friend who had worked at Coastal Camp the previous summer. Intrigued by their friend’s positive experience, Sam decided to join the Coastal Camp staff for Summer 2024, bringing their journey full circle.

Working at Coastal Camp has been a new adventure for Sam. Embracing their role as an educator with enthusiasm, Sam dove into learning as much as possible about the geography and ecology of the Marin Headlands in order to lead and teach their campers effectively. “The opportunity to be working in the Marin Headlands is awesome,” Sam says. “Nothing feels greater as an educator than knowing I really made this kid’s week or I gave this kid a new perspective.” One of Sam’s favorite memories from this summer centers on a hike they led to Victory Point. Upon reaching the apex of the trail, the campers “all yelled ‘Victory!’ when they reached the top without even being told,” Sam recalls with a smile. Moments like these, filled with joy and achievement, have been incredibly rewarding for Sam.

Sam sees NatureBridge as a unique opportunity for young people to connect with their peers in nature, emphasizing the accessibility of the natural world around us. “As an educator, I always say I can learn as much from these kids as they can learn from me,” Sam points out. Reflecting on the importance of environmental education, Sam highlights the critical role NatureBridge plays in teaching students about their impact on the environment. This awareness, instilled at a young age, is vital as we face the challenges of climate change and innovate creative solutions, Sam emphasizes.

When asked what they’ve been thankful for this summer, Sam expressed a deep gratitude for the inclusive community they have found at NatureBridge. Sam specifically highlighted their working relationship with Callie Nance, a childhood friend of Sam’s who is now their supervisor at Coastal Camp. “She has been absolutely incredible in this journey,” says Sam, appreciating Callie’s support and feedback that have helped Sam grow as an educator.

Sam’s full-circle journey with NatureBridge demonstrates the lasting impact of immersive environmental education. From a middle school student inspired by their educators to a dedicated counselor making a difference in young lives, Sam embodies passion, growth, and a deep love for the environment. As Sam puts it, “I grew up going to NatureBridge, and that started this pathway to want to work with kids in the outdoors. I never really lost that light, and it led me to this program.” Sam’s story and positive impact continue to inspire the next generation of NatureBridge students finding their own paths in environmental education and the great outdoors!