Outdoor Learning for
Local Schools
We work with schools and districts to design and deliver outdoor learning programs that support academic goals, student wellbeing, and meaningful engagement.
Our programs are led by experienced outdoor educators and are designed to integrate seamlessly into existing school structures.
Program Options
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Wild Lab - Outdoor Science Program
Standards-aligned, place-based learning on school campuses or local parks, using outdoor spaces as living laboratories to enhance academic instruction.
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Rooted Recess
Experiential outdoor programming that strengthens teamwork, resilience, and social-emotional learning during the school day.
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Afterschool Adventurers Club
Hands-on outdoor enrichment programs that provide safe, engaging learning experiences on school grounds after a long day in the classroom.
Why Outdoor Learning in Schools
Students today spend the majority of their time indoors, often with limited opportunities for hands-on, real-world learning.
Outdoor learning helps:
Increase engagement and focus
Strengthen problem-solving and critical thinking
Support social-emotional development
Improve overall wellbeing
By bringing learning outdoors, schools can create more dynamic and effective learning environments for students. We partner with schools to bring outdoor learning into the school day, afterschool hours, and beyond.
FAQs
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NOLA’s school-based programs are designed for elementary schools looking to bring hands-on, outdoor learning experiences to their students.
We work with schools serving students in Kindergarten through 5th grade, with programs that are age-adapted and aligned with academic and developmental goals.
Programs can be facilitated on school grounds or at nearby outdoor spaces, including local parks, within the Boise and West Ada School Districts.
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NOLA has years of experience running outdoor programs in all weather and every season. However, we understand not all students have the outerwear needed for significantly cold and/or rainy days. While we seek to leverage the benefits of outdoor learning when we can, we don’t want to put undue stress on the students or teachers. Therefore, all of our outdoor programs can be adapted to classroom environments if access to natural areas is limited or in the case of inclement weather.
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We can make it work! Being outside in the sunshine and fresh air is still beneficial for children, even if the outdoor space is lacking in natural areas. Although a space with grass, trees, and dirt are ideal, we can facilitate our programs in a parking lot, turf area, or playground if needed. In addition, we can conduct our programs at a local park within walking distance, or meet the class there if the school provides transportation.