Starting this fall, Maine is launching the Maine Outdoor School for All program, a first-of-its-kind initiative in the state designed to give every student in grades four through eight quality outdoor learning experiences. The program is supported by private foundations and bipartisan legislation and will be administered by the University of Maine Cooperative Extension.

Maine now joins Oregon, Washington, and Minnesota as one of only four states committed to offering outdoor education for all public school students.

Building Skills and Stewardship

Students and their teachers will engage in hands-on, state-aligned curriculum that builds STEM knowledge, leadership, communication, and collaboration skills. The program also nurtures confidence, environmental stewardship, and connections to Maine's outdoor heritage, which are key priorities of the 10-Year Maine Outdoor Recreation Economy Roadmap.

“When our youth get to have positive community-based learning experiences they gain a greater sense of place and connection to this state, making it more likely they will want to stay here to pursue careers, contribute to the Maine economy, raise their families, and participate in their local communities,” said Maine Environmental Education Association Executive Director Olivia Griset.

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