Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders, alongside First Gentleman Bryan Sanders, Arkansas Game and Fish Commission and ADE leadership, have officially announced the launch of the Arkansas Outdoor Education Pilot Program.

This pilot program will begin with up to 30 selected schools statewide during the 2025-26 school year and is designed to integrate conservation and outdoor recreation experiences into general education classrooms.

Arkansas Outdoor Education Pilot Program Press Release

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 Pilot Program 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 hands-on experiences

Program Curriculum & Competencies

• Grade-banded competencies from Pre-K through Grade 12
• Activities include biking, fishing, habitat exploration, nature journaling, and water safety
• Aligned to Arkansas academic standards in science, math, literacy, social studies, health and physical education, and the arts
• Built-in collaboration with Arkansas educators and conservation partners

Program Professional Development

• Multi-day summer sessions in June and July 2025 for pilot schools
• Ongoing school-year professional development opportunities
• Year-long support for educators and school leaders

Incentives for Schools

• Inform pilot program for effectiveness, student impacts, outdoor education leadership opportunities, and advanced programming
• Access to outdoor education professional development, instructional materials, and aligned curriculum resources
• Outdoor recreation equipment

Pilot Program Opportunities

Applications for schools to participate in the School of Conservation Leadership program are now open. APPLY HERE by August 15.

For more information, please contact: