Outdoor Learning Initiative

Our Roots

The Outdoor Learning Initiative began with the Cradle to Career New Mexico Report in 2021. This statewide strategy, endorsed by Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham on April 2, 2019, sets out a long-term vision to align education and career pathways with the stewardship of New Mexico’s natural resources.

In 2022, Senator Siah Correa Hemphill introduced Senate Bill 32 to support funding for outdoor learning programs. This bill was integrated into House Bill 2 (HB 2) in the Senate Finance Committee and passed by both the Senate and House—securing critical support for outdoor learning across the state.

We hope to continue the momentum of outdoor learning through ongoing funding and strong program implementation and technical assistance.

New Mexico Outdoor Learning Framework *Now Live*

The New Mexico Public Education Department is pleased to announce the release of the New Mexico Outdoor Learning Framework, a statewide resource designed to support high-quality, equitable outdoor learning. The Framework provides guidance for integrating outdoor learning into standards-aligned instruction while reflecting New Mexico’s unique cultures, languages, communities, and landscapes.
Developed with input from New Mexico educators and stakeholders, the Framework emphasizes culturally and linguistically responsive practices, student agency, safety and accessibility, assessment, professional learning, and family and community partnerships. It provides a flexible foundation for schools and educators to strengthen existing outdoor learning or begin creating meaningful learning experiences connected to place and community.

About Us

The Outdoor Learning Team is dedicated to supporting Local Education Agencies (LEAs) in grades K—12 across New Mexico by providing:

• Professional learning opportunities for educators
• Technical assistance to support implementation
• Collaborative partnerships with schools, communities, and stakeholders

We also offer annual grant funding to help launch start-up outdoor learning programs across the state. Since 2022, we have awarded Outdoor Learning Start-Up Grants to 27 schools and districts across New Mexico.

Our Mission

We aim to inspire and empower New Mexico’s students, educators, and communities by connecting them to the outdoors, promoting community and place-based education that fosters environmental stewardship, academic success, and overall well-being.

Outdoor Learning Start Up Grants

Outdoor Learning Grant Recipients 2026-2027

Congratulations to the recipients of the Outdoor Learning Grant for 2026-2027! After a rigorous application process, the following schools and districts have been awarded the grant:

• Albuquerque Public Schools – Continuation Grant
• Aldo Leopold Charter School – Continuation Grant
• James Elementary School, PPS – Continuation Grant
• Jemez Valley Schools – Startup Grant
• Raices de Saber Xinahtli Community School – Startup Grant
• Region 6 – Barry STEAM Elementary –Startup Grant
• Rita Marquez Elementary and Anton Chico Middle, SRCS – Continuation Grant
• Siembra Charter High School – Continuation Grant
• Vaughn Public Schools – Startup Grant
• Walatowa Charter High School – Startup Grant
• West Las Vegas Middle School – Startup Grant

These schools and districts are expanding access to outdoor learning across New Mexico, connecting students to place, culture, and community through hands-on, interdisciplinary experiences. They will participate in the 2026–2027 Outdoor Learning Community of Practice, receive technical assistance and site support from PED, and help advance outdoor learning statewide.

Congratulations to our past grant recipients. Grantees are represented across the state of New Mexico and show representation of rural and urban locations.
Outdoor Learning Initiative Grantees – Google My Maps

Outdoor Learning in New Mexico: By the Numbers

Since launching in 2022, the Outdoor Learning Initiative has continued to grow statewide—expanding access to outdoor learning spaces and educator support across New Mexico.

At a Glance

• 35 schools and districts have received Outdoor Learning Start-Up Grants since 2022
• Hundreds of educators have participated in professional learning, Communities of Practice, and technical assistance sessions
• Thousands of students have engaged in outdoor learning experiences connected to place, culture, and community
• Dozens of new outdoor classrooms, gardens, and learning spaces have been created through school and community partnerships

These numbers reflect the growing movement to bring learning outdoors, strengthen connections to community and environment, and support the well-being of students and educators statewide.