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Bill > LD895

ME LD895

ME LD895
An Act to Support Immersive Outdoor Education by Establishing the Outdoor School for All Maine Students Program

summary

Introduced
03/05/2025
In Committee
03/05/2025
Crossed Over
05/13/2025
Passed
05/21/2025
Dead
Signed/Enacted/Adopted
05/23/2025

Introduced Session

132nd Legislature

Bill Summary

An Act to Support Immersive Outdoor Education by Establishing the Outdoor School for All Maine Students Program Emergency preamble. Whereas, acts and resolves of the Legislature do not become effective until 90 days after adjournment unless enacted as emergencies; and Whereas, this legislation establishes an immersive outdoor education program that provides interdisciplinary and experiential education in an outdoor setting, and this legislation creates equitable opportunities for students across this State to have outdoor experiences; and Whereas, many children in this State lack opportunities to enjoy and learn about the outdoors because of home circumstances, lack of access or transportation or a deficiency of suitable school or community-based programs; and Whereas, the Outdoor School for All Maine Students Program will prepare children in this State for future success, will build self-awareness and confidence and will be an opportunity to instill the importance of the State's natural resources industries by encouraging future generations of farmers, foresters, persons who fish commercially and others working outdoors or as stewards of the State's natural resources; and Whereas, the Outdoor School for All Maine Students Program will begin in school year 2025-2026; and Whereas, in the judgment of the Legislature, these facts create an emergency within the meaning of the Constitution of Maine and require the following legislation as immediately necessary for the preservation of the public peace, health and safety; now, therefore,

AI Summary

This bill establishes the Outdoor School for All Maine Students Program, a comprehensive initiative designed to provide immersive outdoor education experiences for students in grades 4-8 across Maine. The program, to be administered by the University of Maine Cooperative Extension Service, will begin in the 2025-2026 school year and aims to offer students a 2-night, 3-day outdoor educational experience that focuses on hands-on learning about Maine's natural resources, ecosystems, and industries. The program will prioritize equitable access, particularly for historically underserved communities, including tribal nations, rural schools, students of color, and students with special needs. The curriculum will emphasize interdisciplinary learning, covering topics such as marine resources, scientific research, agriculture, conservation, wildlife management, and public health, while also developing students' social and emotional skills. A dedicated fund will be established to support the program, with funding coming from state appropriations and potential private sources. An advisory committee will be formed to provide guidance and ensure the program's success, with an annual report to be submitted to legislative committees detailing the program's impact and accessibility. The bill is designed to combat learning loss from the COVID-19 pandemic, prepare students for future success, and instill an appreciation for Maine's natural resources and outdoor industries.

Committee Categories

Agriculture and Natural Resources

Sponsors (9)

Last Action

Governor's Action: Emergency Signed, May 23, 2025 (on 05/23/2025)

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