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Trump suffers first defeat but as always doubles down for the next fight; From Ohio to Azerbaijan: How COP29 could shape local farming; Funding boosts 'green' projects in Meadville, PA; VA apprenticeships bridge skills gaps, offer career stability.

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Trump has a new pick for Attorney General, his incoming "border czar" warns local Democratic officials not to impede mass deportation, and the House passes legislation that could target any nonprofit group accused of supporting terrorism.

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The CDC has a new plan to improve the health of rural Americans, updated data could better prepare folks for flash floods like those that devastated Appalachia, and Native American Tribes could play a key role in the nation's energy future.

Outdoor Education Key to Improving Health of Students, Planet

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Monday, June 19, 2023   

Congressional lawmakers are considering a bill to help improve the environmental literacy of America's students.

Dubbed the "No Child Left Inside Act," the bill would authorize about $100 million for grants to help more teachers get their students learning outdoors.

Amara Ifeji, director of policy for the Maine Environmental Education Association, said increasing students' access to the natural world will help build the movement needed to tackle the most pressing environmental problems.

"I think that's really the first step to environmental justice, is connection and building a relationship," Ifeji contended.

Ifeji observed students from underprivileged communities too often lack access to the great outdoors, leading to poor physical and mental health outcomes. Research shows students are often better able to focus when learning in nature, and teachers report better student behavior and social interactions.

States with updated environmental literacy plans would be eligible for the funding through the No Child Left Inside Act, including Maine, which increased its outdoor learning experiences during the pandemic.

Ifeji pointed out more than 100 lawmakers in Maine are currently co-sponsoring a bill to help school districts partner with residential outdoor learning facilities.

"We have a ton in the state of Maine," Ifeji explained. "And be able to host three-day, two-night residential outdoor learning experiences for students to be able to learn about Maine's natural resources."

Ifeji added both pieces of legislation will help students cultivate habits to help the environment, including cutting down on single-use plastic or food waste, but will also help them turn any feelings of "eco-anxiety" or "climate grief" into "climate hope."


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