This section governs the requirements for outdoor education program providers.

1. 1. Program curricula The program must:

   1. A. Use the outdoors and local ecosystems as the primary context to support hands-on learning, including lessons, meals and on-site living;

      [PL 2025, c. 84, §1 (NEW).]

   2. B. Engage students in safe and age-appropriate activities;

      [PL 2025, c. 84, §1 (NEW).]

   3. C. Focus on the State's outdoor heritage, science, engineering, technology, mathematics, health, environment and natural resources and sustainability by including a strong academic component that supports overall academic achievement and career trajectories and connects science with other subjects to support students' understanding of:

      1. (1) Conserving and developing marine and estuarine resources;
      2. (2) Conducting scientific research;
      3. (3) Promoting the State's coastal fishing industries;
      4. (4) Protecting and managing fish, game and other wildlife and their habitats, including restoring endangered species;
      5. (5) Promoting agriculture, conservation, forestry, land management and the well-being of domestic animals;
      6. (6) Safely enjoying the outdoors; and

      7. (7) Promoting public health;

         [PL 2025, c. 84, §1 (NEW).]

   4. D. Develop students' social and emotional skills, including teamwork, citizenship, self-awareness and community responsibility;

      [PL 2025, c. 84, §1 (NEW).]

   5. E. Support students' health and wellness by developing an appreciation for education and recreation in the outdoors;

      [PL 2025, c. 84, §1 (NEW).]

   6. F. Encourage hands-on engagement, observation, discovery, intellectual curiosity and problem-solving; and

      [PL 2025, c. 84, §1 (NEW).]

   7. G. Support students and teachers to combat the learning loss associated with the COVID-19 pandemic.

      [PL 2025, c. 84, §1 (NEW).]

   [PL 2025, c. 84, §1 (NEW).]

2. 2. Program structure An outdoor education program provider shall:

   1. A. Comply with the requirements of chapter 927 regarding licensed guides, youth camp trip leaders or educational trip leaders, as appropriate.

      [PL 2025, c. 84, §1 (NEW).]

   2. B. Provide outdoor programs for a 2-night, 3-day experience or day programs when overnight programs are impractical due to health or cultural considerations;

      [PL 2025, c. 84, §1 (NEW).]

   3. C. Pursue a sustainable funding model;

      [PL 2025, c. 84, §1 (NEW).]

   4. D. Collaborate with schools and teachers to provide access to the program;

      [PL 2025, c. 84, §1 (NEW).]

   5. E. Pledge to provide equitable access to the program to all students;

      [PL 2025, c. 84, §1 (NEW).]

   6. F. Train educators in educational strategies and field work;

      [PL 2025, c. 84, §1 (NEW).]

   7. G. Develop and participate in an evaluation program in accordance with section 5305; and

      [PL 2025, c. 84, §1 (NEW).]

   8. H. Promote high levels of accessibility for students with disabilities.

      [PL 2025, c. 84, §1 (NEW).]

   [PL 2025, c. 84, §1 (NEW).]

PL 2025, c. 84, §1 (NEW).