Bill > SB439

This bill establishes a program to fund outdoor school experiences for students, directing the Oregon State University Extension Service to help school districts and education service districts (regional entities that support local school districts) provide these programs. The Extension Service will administer a grant program, offer leadership, and maintain the programs, with grants specifically for six-day, residential, hands-on educational experiences or equivalent programs that teach students about natural resources, their economic importance, and the environment, while also integrating with school curricula to meet science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) standards and developing students' critical thinking and leadership skills. Priority for grants will be given to programs that demonstrate a positive impact on academic achievement, leadership, behavior, engagement, problem-solving, communication, and understanding of various subjects, and an advisory committee will be formed to help set standards and recommend funding distributions. The bill also declares an emergency, meaning it will take effect on July 1, 2015, to ensure the immediate preservation of public peace, health, and safety.