Sen. Grant Hauschild
Growing up, my favorite place in the world was my grandparent’s lake cabin in central Minnesota, and now I’m raising my own kids here in Northern Minnesota with the incredible outdoor opportunities we have right outside our door. It’s because of this that I’ve always known how powerful the outdoors can be. It teaches responsibility, curiosity, and resilience in ways a classroom alone never could. That’s why I was proud to serve as the chief author of the “Outdoor School for All” initiative, which was recently signed into law, and why I fought to secure the funding needed to make it a reality.
“Outdoor School for All” will provide Minnesota students, especially those in rural and underserved communities, with the opportunity to participate in multi-day outdoor learning experiences. These aren’t one-off nature hikes. We’re talking about immersive education programs led by trusted environmental learning centers, where kids explore science, ecology, and teamwork while actually being in the environment they’re learning about.
As a parent, I know how meaningful these experiences can be. But as a policymaker, I’ve also seen how unequal access has been. Too many schools, especially in rural Minnesota, can’t afford to send their students to outdoor programs. Too many kids miss out on the chance to connect with nature because their communities lack the resources. That’s not right.
The “Outdoor School for All” program changes that. It helps cover transportation and participation costs so that no student is left behind. It gives schools the ability to say yes to these trips, not just for the few, but for everyone. And it reinforces our state’s proud commitment to outdoor heritage, environmental stewardship, and hands-on learning.
This isn’t just good policy. It’s personal to me. In a time where far too many kids are sitting in front of screens all day and missing the sunlight, I believe every child should get to sit around a campfire, paddle a canoe, or walk through a quiet forest to realize the world is bigger and more beautiful than what they see on a normal day. That’s the kind of experience that sticks with you for a lifetime.
I’m grateful to the teachers, parents, and outdoor educators who advocated for this program. And I’m proud that our state has come together to support something that’s not just good for our kids, but good for Minnesota’s future.
DFL Sen. Grant Hauschild represents District 3, which encompasses most of northeastern Minnesota. He was the chief author of the “Outdoor School for All” initiative.

Sen. Robert Farnsworth
Minnesota’s lakes, forests, prairies, and rivers are some of the greatest treasures in our nation, and too many of our kids grow up without truly experiencing their beauty and wonder. This year, the Legislature took a bold step by funding nearly $4 million in grants for the new “Outdoor School for All” program to give more kids the chance to experience out great outdoors. The goal is simple but powerful: give every Minnesota student in grades 4–12 the opportunity to learn, explore, and grow through multi-day outdoor experiences.
These aren’t just field trips. They’re opportunities to spark curiosity, build confidence, and inspire understanding of our natural resources. “Outdoor School for All” connects students from every corner of the state, from the Iron Range to the Twin Cities to the farmlands of the southwest, with the skills and knowledge to enjoy, survive, and care for our great outdoors.
We know that time spent outside as a kid isn’t just fun; it’s essential. Kids who spend time in nature are going to be more physically active, less stressed, and more engaged in learning. Outdoor experiences help students develop problem-solving skills, teamwork, and build resilience. For some students, this may be their first night under the stars, first time catching a fish, or first hike through a pine forest. They learn to paddle a canoe, identify wildlife, build a campfire, and navigate trails. These skills last a lifetime and prepare them for real-world challenges, all while being fun. 
Unfortunately, many families can’t afford to send their kids to wilderness camp or on outdoor trips. The needs-based grants funded through “Outdoor School for All” remove financial barriers and ensure no child misses out. Whether a student grows up in the heart of Minneapolis or a small rural town, they deserve the chance to experience the beauty and challenge of Minnesota’s great outdoors.
With “Outdoor School for All,” we’re not just teaching kids how to enjoy the outdoors, we’re teaching them to appreciate the wonder of nature and how to best care for and manage our natural resources. That’s a lesson that will benefit all Minnesotans for generations to come.
Republican Sen. Robert Farnsworth represents District 7, encompassing a large portion of north-central Minnesota. He was a co-author of the “Outdoor School for All” initiative.

Northwoods Perspectives is an occasional series of essays from our elected legislators regarding natural resources and other rural issues important to northern Minnesota.
This series is coordinated by Mark Jacobs, Associate with Dovetail Partners, and regular contributor to KAXE Northern Community Radio and the Voyageur Press of McGregor.