MINNESOTA

OUTDOOR SCHOOL FOR ALL

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All MN students deserve equitable access to outdoor experiences where they can learn, play, and grow.

HOWEVER, current access to outdoor educational opportunities is inequitable. For too many kids, access to the outdoors is determined by race, income, ability, and zip code.

Outdoor School for All Minnesota is advocating for the establishment of a statewide grant program to support immersive, multi-day, accredited overnight outdoor education program experiences for students in grades 4 to 12 to address these needs and to ensure that all students have a chance to benefit from outdoor education.

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What is Outdoor School?

An Outdoor School program is a multi-day, accredited overnight experience where students have the opportunities to participate in outdoor-based learning activities in outdoor recreation, natural science, and cultural history.

Outdoor School program providers work with partnering school groups to meet curriculum goals and state academic standards.

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Learn about Outdoor School for All

Read the MN Outdoor School for All Bill

The bill would establish a statewide grant program to support overnight outdoor education experiences for students in grades 4 to 12.

The legislation provides state funding for program fees, transportation, and teacher stipends to ensure every student in the state has the opportunity to experience an accredited overnight Outdoor School Program

S.F. 2077

Outdoor Opportunities for Minnesota Youth Legislative Report

The 2025 DNR report recommends the creation of a state program, Outdoor School for All Minnesota Youth, which will demonstrate and implement a statewide commitment of inclusive outdoor education so that every Minnesota child has access to a life-changing experience in the outdoors.

Read the Report

Click here to see the list of current authors and co-authors of the bills.

Download the Outdoor School for All MN brochure!

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Research shows participants in outdoor educational activities have:

Higher academic performance, enhanced critical thinking skills, and higher graduation rates

Improved behavior in school
and relationships with peers

Direct experience in scientific concepts in the field, leadership, and collaboration

Deeper engagement with learning, place, and community

Only 29% of Minnesota students are able to access Outdoor School.

About the bill

Outdoor School For All Minnesota will establish a state wide grant program to support immersive, multiday, accredited overnight outdoor education program experiences for students in grades 4 to 12 to ensure that all Minnesota students have a chance to benefit from outdoor education.
Why now?

Our children are losing their connection to the outdoors. COVID-19 had deep impacts on children. 66% of Minnesota principals say they need mental health support for students, and spending time outdoors reduces stress by 30%.
Minnesota Legacy

We must ensure preservation of Minnesota’s rich outdoor heritage like hunting, fishing, and outdoor recreation for future generations.
Improved social & academic learning

Spending time in nature enhances educational outcomes and leads to better social skills, increased self-esteem, and enhanced health.
Equity

Children of color and low income families are less likely to have access to the outdoors and its benefits.
Why are funds needed?

Currently only 29% of Minnesota students are able to access Outdoor School. Teacher surveys indicate that funding is a top barrier to accessing Outdoor School programming. Outdoor School for All Minnesota will provide crucial funding to help close the access disparity gap.
Who is eligible?

All Minnesota public, private, and, tribal and home schools serving grades 4-12 are eligible.
How is funding used?

The legislation provides state funding to ensure every student in the state has the opportunity to experience an accredited overnight Outdoor School Program at some point between grades 4-8.
Are there other states persuing this legislation?

Yes! Oregon and Washington both have passed Outdoor School for All legislation with Maine and Maryland working on it. There are other states in the early process of drafting legislation and gaining support. Learn about the National OSFA Movement here.

“Our students benefit from an outdoor education experience because they primarily come from low income families who reside in an urban setting. Many of our families do not have access to such opportunities or trips outside of [Outdoor School].”

- 5th grade teacher, Minneapolis