Arkansas Launches Innovative Outdoor Education Pilot Program
LITTLE ROCK, AR – Governor Sarah Sanders announced the launch of Arkansas’ new Outdoor Education pilot program on June 4, accompanied by first gentleman Bryan Sanders, and officials from the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC), including Mary Beth Hatch and Doug Schoenrock. The announcement took place at the AGFC Witt Stephens Nature Center and aims to mesh education with outdoor recreation, key priorities for the Sanders administration.
The program, a groundbreaking initiative under the Natural State Initiative, is a collaboration between the Arkansas Department of Education and the AGFC, designed to instill a lifelong passion for the outdoors in students. "We aim to bring together leaders from the public, private, and nonprofit sectors to enrich our students’ connection to nature," Sanders stated.
Schools across the state can apply to participate in the program, with a select 30 districts chosen for its inaugural year. Following this pilot, the effectiveness of the initiative will be assessed for a potential statewide launch. AGFC director Schoenrock expressed his enthusiasm, emphasizing the significance of integrating outdoor experiences within the educational framework.
Hatch reassured educators that the program is designed to ease their workload, providing professional development support through the summer and school year, ensuring a seamless implementation. State Representative Carlton Wing, an advocate for outdoor activities, highlighted the importance of reconnecting youth with nature, stating, "This gives them an opportunity to connect with the outdoors that previous generations always had."
As Arkansas sets a precedent in outdoor education, stakeholders are optimistic that the program will serve as a model for other states, showcasing the exceptional resources and commitment to outdoor experiences in the Natural State.
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