Building Outdoor Education Capacity in Idaho
GrantID: 6728
Grant Funding Amount Low: Open
Deadline: Ongoing
Grant Amount High: Open
Summary
Grant Overview
Building Outdoor Education for STEM Learning in Idaho
Idaho's vast landscapes are a remarkable resource for enhancing educational experiences, particularly in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM). However, many schools across the state face significant challenges in integrating practical STEM learning opportunities into their curricula. A report by the Idaho State Board of Education identified that 71% of students in rural areas reported a lack of hands-on science education, limiting their engagement and understanding of critical STEM concepts. This gap in practical education is especially pronounced in schools that do not have immediate access to specialized resources or urban facilities.
Students in rural Idaho often belong to communities where the economy is driven by agriculture, forestry, and outdoor recreation. However, the curriculum they receive does not always connect with their real-world experiences or the local industries in their areas. Many students from these backgrounds may struggle to envision career pathways in STEM fields due to the lack of exposure and practical applications within their education.
This funding initiative seeks to bridge the gap by supporting schools in developing and implementing outdoor education programs that are integrated with STEM learning. By leveraging Idaho’s unique landscapes, including its mountains, rivers, and forests, schools can provide students with hands-on learning experiences that make science and technology come alive. Programs can include outdoor labs, field studies, and collaborations with local environmental organizations to build curriculum that encourages students to engage with their surroundings.
Through outdoor education, students are not only encouraged to develop skills in observation and critical thinking but also gain practical knowledge about ecology, geology, and other relevant scientific principles. By connecting the curriculum with Idaho's natural resources, schools can create a more engaging and relatable learning experience. Moreover, such programs are shown to enhance academic performance by fostering a deeper understanding of complex concepts through applied learning.
In conclusion, developing outdoor education for STEM learning in Idaho requires a collaborative effort from educators, local organizations, and community members. Schools must actively engage with their surroundings to create curricula that resonate with the unique attributes of their region. By doing so, Idaho can help students acquire the knowledge and skills necessary for future success in STEM careers, while also nurturing a strong sense of environmental stewardship.
Who Should Apply in Idaho
Eligible applicants for this grant include K-12 schools and educational organizations focused on enhancing STEM education through practical, outdoor experiences. Preference will be given to schools located in rural or underserved communities where traditional resources for STEM education are less accessible.
Application Requirements in Idaho
To apply, schools must outline their proposed outdoor education program, detailing specific activities, partnerships with local environmental or educational organizations, and measurable student outcomes. Applications should include a strategic plan showing how the program will be implemented across different grade levels and disciplines, demonstrating its capacity to enhance overall educational engagement in STEM fields.
Fit Assessment for Idaho's Context
Schools in Idaho must align their proposals with state educational standards while emphasizing the importance of outdoor experiences in STEM learning. Applications demonstrating a robust connection to local industries, environmental conservation, and hands-on experiences will be prioritized. Additionally, addressing how outdoor education can help mitigate the skills gap in Idaho’s workforce will strengthen the application’s alignment with state priorities.
In fostering outdoor education, Idaho can transform its approach to STEM learning, providing students with the skills and inspiration needed to thrive in their local communities and beyond, all while respecting and utilizing the state's natural environment.
Eligible Regions
Interests
Eligible Requirements
