Learning in the Outdoor Classroom

Outdoor spaces offer an abundance of opportunities to learn and play

By: Clara Bewley

Name: Cassie Torrence

School: Robert F Kennedy

Middle School

Role: Social Studies Teacher

Years involved with Gulch

Programs: 2

How has getting your students outdoors impacted their school experience?

I have students who have never been hiking, now reporting it as their favorite hobby! My students are engaged in their curriculum and seem to have a new found respect for their home city and pride in their home state. So many kids have switched their tone from "Albuquerque is so boring" to "There are a lot of things to do here in the outdoors, if you like that stuff".

How do you think involvement in Gulch programs has impacted your students' sense of community? Students across classes are building new friendships! Students who previously never spoke to each other are now sitting together at lunch!

Why do you think outdoor education is important for your students and your community specifically? My students need tangible connections to their environment in order to take ownership of their community. Outdoor education has empowered my students to build community, and get out of their comfort zone.

By: Olivia Marín