What Outdoor Learning Programs Cover (and Excludes)

Measuring Success in Secondary Education Outdoor Learning Initiatives

The Grant to Support Youth to Outdoor, Nature-Based Learning Experiences emphasizes the importance of measurable outcomes in secondary education. As organizations apply for funding to connect youth to outdoor learning experiences, understanding the measurement requirements is crucial. The funder, Foundation, is looking for initiatives that not only provide unique learning experiences but also demonstrate tangible results in the realm of secondary education.

Performance Metrics for Secondary Education

To be considered for funding, applicants must be prepared to track and report on specific performance metrics. These include metrics that directly relate to the grant's objectives, such as the number of secondary education students engaged in outdoor learning experiences and the frequency of these experiences. For instance, a secondary education institution might measure the impact of outdoor learning on student academic performance in environmental science or biology courses. Performance-based grants for secondary institutions will be evaluated on their ability to demonstrate a clear link between outdoor learning experiences and improved academic outcomes. The Foundation requires grantees to adhere to specific reporting requirements, including regular progress reports and a final evaluation report that details the outcomes of the funded project.

One concrete regulation that applies to this sector is the Wisconsin state law requiring schools to incorporate environmental education into their curricula. Applicants must demonstrate compliance with this regulation and explain how their outdoor learning initiatives align with state educational standards. A unique delivery challenge in secondary education is ensuring that outdoor learning experiences are accessible and equitable for all students, including those with disabilities or from socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds. For example, scholarships for private high schools might be necessary to ensure that students from lower-income families can participate in outdoor learning programs.

In terms of staffing and resource requirements, successful applicants will need to have a team with the necessary expertise to design and deliver outdoor learning experiences that are both educational and safe. This might involve partnerships with outdoor education providers or training for teachers to lead outdoor learning activities. The Foundation is looking for initiatives that can demonstrate a clear plan for sustaining outdoor learning experiences beyond the grant period, potentially through securing postsecondary education grants to continue the programs.

Eligibility and Compliance

To avoid eligibility barriers, applicants must ensure that their proposals align closely with the grant's objectives and the Foundation's priorities. Compliance traps to watch out for include failing to meet reporting requirements or not adhering to the specified budget constraints of $100–$500. It's also crucial for applicants to understand what is not funded under this grant; for instance, general operational costs not directly related to outdoor learning experiences are likely to be ineligible.

FAQs for Secondary Education Applicants

Q: How do I demonstrate that my outdoor learning initiative aligns with Wisconsin state educational standards? A: To demonstrate alignment, you should clearly outline how your outdoor learning experiences map onto the existing secondary education curriculum, particularly in subjects like environmental science. Referencing the specific state laws and educational standards that your program addresses will strengthen your application.

Q: Can I use grant funds to provide scholarships for private high schools to participate in outdoor learning experiences? A: Yes, scholarships for private high schools can be an eligible expense if they are directly related to facilitating outdoor, nature-based learning experiences for secondary education students. Ensure that your budget clearly justifies these expenses.

Q: What kind of reporting requirements can I expect if I receive a performance-based grant for my secondary institution? A: As a grantee, you will be required to submit regular progress reports that detail the number of students engaged in outdoor learning experiences, among other metrics. A final evaluation report will also be necessary to assess the overall impact of the grant on secondary education outcomes.