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East Falmouth students showcase outdoor-learning pilot as school earns DESE recognition
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Summary
Students and specialists presented a K–4 outdoor learning pilot at East Falmouth Elementary, highlighting weekly outdoor lessons tied to classroom curriculum. The committee also recognized East Falmouth as a DESE School of Recognition for 2025.
East Falmouth Elementary students and staff described a first-year outdoor-learning pilot program to the Falmouth School Committee on Feb. 24, presenting examples of lessons that link outdoor activities to classroom learning.
David Watson, a physical-education teacher and former Falmouth student, said the pilot schedules weekly 40‑minute outdoor blocks for K–4 students. Lessons have included math exercises measuring shadows, ecosystem science, sensory writing and nature-based art. Staff and volunteers provided photos and worksheets showing scavenger hunts, seed dissection and snow painting used to reinforce in-class learning.
The pilot aims to run in most weather; the team secured a small mini‑grant to buy rain boots and ponchos so classes can go outside in wet conditions. Teachers said sessions are shortened in cold or muddy weather but that the outings have occurred almost every week and allow students to “slow down” and notice local flora and fauna.
A student who spoke during the presentation said, “I like how we get to learn more about the nature,” describing how nature walks and courtyard activities have helped classmates identify evergreen species and observe seed migration.
Principal Marissa Moran and committee members praised the collaboration among specialists, classroom teachers and parent volunteers. The superintendent told the committee that East Falmouth was recently named one of 55 schools statewide recognized by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education for achievement or growth; the school received a formal citation during a visit to Boston.
The committee did not take formal action on the pilot at the meeting; members asked staff to report back on scheduling, preschool participation (currently excluded), and whether the model could be expanded to other schools.
The committee moved on to other agenda items; the next public meeting is scheduled for Feb. 24, when members expect follow-ups on accountability data and other district priorities.
