Preparing to launch an Outdoor Education Project

Questions to ask yourself:

Why do you want to do this?  What are your educational goals and objectives?  (see "Goals" page.)

How many other teachers are interested to work with you on a Project Team?

Does your principal/ superintendent /school board support the project?

What kind of environment is outside the school building?  What elements are there that could be used for an outdoor learning activity now?  What could you develop to add more learning experiences?

If you want to plant a garden, is there a water source?

What funds do you have available?  For professional development?  For materials?  For gardening equipment?

Personal Preparation

Decide you will do it!

Be aware that you may be working alone.

Preparing for your site visit

Checklist to prepare for your site visit:

• Identify at least two other teachers or staff (or parents) who would be willing to work with you on this project. 
• Contact them and ask them to be on your Project Team or Committee.
• Ask your principal to get substitute teachers for you and/or your team members so you can be excused from classes during Joan’s site visits.
• Look around your school building.  Identify possible areas of development.
• Plan for a faculty in-service day, if you think it would be beneficial.  Select which workshops you would like Joan to present to your faculty or teach to your classes (see "Workshop Topics" page.)
• Gather any consumable materials needed for your choice of workshop presentations. 
• Get ready to have a productive busy day!