A bill that would create a statewide outdoor education program has been proposed as the House and the Senate work to finalize the state’s 2022 supplemental budget. Lawmakers have to reach an agreement by March 10.
The Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction said it would cost an annual $44.2 million to send every fifth and sixth-grader to a three day, zero night outdoor experience. It is estimated to cost almost $1 million for staff to manage the grant programs over the next four years.
The House Bill number is 2078. One of the programs it will create is called the Outdoor Education Experiences Program, creates funding for public schools to send all fifth and sixth grade students on outdoor learning trips. The bill would establish two programs intended to increase students’ outdoor learning opportunities, one of which would make grants available to school districts, tribal schools and outdoor education providers.
The price tag is major. The proposed state supplemental budget put forth by Senate Democrats sets aside $10 million for the rest of the 2021-2023 budget cycle and anticipates $50 million for 2023-2025 for the program. Twenty million dollars has been allotted for the program starting in 2022.
Budget writers in the House are planning to fund a grant program, putting money directly into schools and outdoor-education providers with the intention of sending every eligible student in the state on an outdoor learning experience. The Senate’s budget is structured as a reimbursement program, making funds available to schools should they choose to send their kids to camp.
The bill has broad bipartisan and bicameral support. Teachers and outdoor educators believe this program is beneficial for behavioral learning, test scores and mental health, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
