ADE is committed to build a new model of learning rooted in the beauty and resources of the Natural State. Schools are invited to support outdoor education efforts and help prepare students for future outdoor recreation careers to grow Arkansas tourism and the outdoor economy.

Purpose

The Arkansas Outdoor Education Initiative seeks to:

• Improve student health, academic engagement, and outdoor literacy
• Connect classroom learning to Arkansas' natural resources and outdoor economy
• Foster interest in careers in conservation, ecology, and outdoor recreation
• Reduce screen time and increase physical activity through outdoor experiences
• Increase the number of hours for teaching and learning outside

Partnerships

• The Arkansas Outdoor Education Initiative is a partnership between the Arkansas Department of Education, the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, and Arkansas State Parks.
• Through collaboration among the three state agencies, schools become better equipped to take student learning outside with robust, standards-aligned outdoor experiences.
• Built-in collaboration with Arkansas educators and conservation partners

Vision for Learning

• Aligned curriculum to Arkansas Academic Standards in science, math, literacy, health, and physical education and the arts
• Engages students in outdoor competencies including biking, camping, and hiking, fishing, outdoor recreation, water quality and safety, and wildlife awareness in ways appropriate to their age.
• Takes place outside, on school grounds, and beyond

Professional Learning and School Support

• Ongoing school-year professional development opportunities
• Year-long support for educators and school leaders

Incentives for Schools

• Informs how schools can implement and sustain outdoor instruction for effectiveness and student impacts
• Access to outdoor education professional development, supplemental instructional materials, and grant resources
• Building partnerships with outdoor education specialists in state education agencies, state parks, and nature centers
• Pathways for students to the outdoor recreation industry, its professionals, and outdoor recreation experiences across the Natural State.