Quick Links
Overview
The Maryland Schoolyard Forests Program helps schools create outdoor spaces that support student well-being, enrich learning, and strengthen connections to the natural world. The program recognizes that schoolyards are central to daily life for Maryland’s children—places where they play, gather, and learn—but many campuses lack the shade, comfort, and natural features that allow those spaces to reach their full potential. Schoolyard Forests offers schools the guidance, tools, and support needed to transform their grounds into healthier, more inviting environments that enhance learning and help communities adapt to a changing climate.
The program’s purpose is to make outdoor improvement efforts easier and more accessible for schools by providing practical assistance, meaningful learning opportunities, and clear pathways for long-term stewardship. In partnership with the
Maryland Association for Environmental and Outdoor Education (MAEOE), it also supports schools advancing toward
Maryland Green School certification. The Schoolyard Forests Program is developed and administered by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources and complements statewide goals to increase access to nature and improve environmental resilience.
What the Program Provides
The Schoolyard Forests Program offers a flexible set of supports that help schools enhance their outdoor spaces in ways that align with their goals, available time, and capacity. While planting new trees may be part of a project, the program’s emphasis is on creating outdoor environments that are healthier, cooler, and more meaningful for students and staff.
Through the program, schools may receive:
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Campus planning and technical support to identify opportunities for improving outdoor spaces, caring for existing trees, and introducing native plantings when appropriate.
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Hands-on assistance and training for facilities teams, teachers, and staff to build comfort and confidence with long-term stewardship.
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Educational and student-centered opportunities that integrate outdoor learning into the school day—such as campus mapping, nature-based activities, seed collection, and environmental literacy projects.
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Engagement and celebration events including Earth Month and Arbor Day programs that foster community involvement.
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Youth career exploration through demonstrations and experiences that introduce students to natural resource stewardship and green career pathways.
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Microgrants and classroom support materials for schools advancing toward Green School certification or developing outdoor projects.
Participating in the Program
Participation is open to Maryland public schools of all types and sizes, with priority given to schools and communities with the greatest need. District-level facility teams and community partners working directly with school campuses are also welcome. Privately funded schools may participate, though program resources are first directed toward public schools where support can have the broadest impact.
A formal application process is being developed and will be linked from this page once available. Schools will be able to request the level and type of support that best fits their needs, from simple guidance to more comprehensive planning and project assistance. In the meantime, schools may contact [Program Contact Name] directly to discuss interest and initial questions.
Whether a school is interested in strengthening outdoor learning, enhancing existing green spaces, or addressing campus heat and comfort, the Schoolyard Forests Program is designed to make the process approachable, collaborative, and sustainable.
Contact Us
Veronica Guerra
Program Administrator, Urban & Community Forestry
Maryland Forest Service
Maryland Department of Natural Resources
580 Taylor Avenue, E-1
Annapolis, Maryland 21401
(410) 260-8521
[email protected]
