What Is the LEAF School Grounds Program?
LEAF and the Wisconsin Center for Environmental
Education (WCEE) continue to expand their support of outdoor education with
the LEAF School Grounds Program. Viewing school grounds as part
of the larger urban forest, the program serves as a resource for Wisconsin
schools seeking ways to use their school grounds as outdoor teaching sites. The
program was designed to help teachers discover teaching and learning
opportunities that exist right outside the school doors. Whether a school site
is in need of just being used, or needs an overhaul, the program has resources
and tips on how to “Open the door and step outside.”
What Do Outdoor Teaching Sites Look Like?
Just
about any space can be used to get students learning outside. Several trees,
one tree, an open grassy area, a flower bed, a vegetable garden, even a parking
lot can all be used to teach.
Educational Benefits of Outdoor Education:
Research
has proven that outdoor learning provides many benefits, from improved academic
performance and classroom behavior to strengthened community and family
relationships.
Services include:
·
In-Services & Workshops:
LEAF’s expert staff will come to your school to help you assess your site and
determine how best to use the site to teach and learn. To Request an in-service complete this form.
·
Website: There
educators can find information on how to get students outdoors to learn, even
if it is just outside their door. Provides three entry points depending
on comfort level:
o
Step
Outside helps those just getting started,
o
Enhance
Your Site assists those who are looking for ways to improve their existing
site, and;
o
Develop
Your Site will help you build your dream outdoor teaching site.
To request an in-service or workshop please complete this FORM
For other inquiries, please contact Sarah Gilbert at Sarah.Gilbert@uwsp.edu