Academic Innovation Conference 2026

Creating an Outdoor Learning Classroom: From Grant Vision to Student Impact
This breakout session showcases the development of an outdoor learning classroom funded through the AIM Grant at a rural high school in Ashe County, North Carolina. The project transformed a courtyard into a flexible instructional space that supports hands-on learning, student engagement, and college and career readiness. Participants will learn practical strategies for planning, implementing, and sustaining outdoor learning environments, as well as lessons learned throughout the process. Attendees will leave with ideas they can adapt to their own schools to expand experiential learning opportunities beyond the traditional classroom.