In Utah, we are fortunate to live in a landscape that serves as one of the world’s most spectacular classrooms. From the jagged peaks of the Wasatch Range to the winding corridor of the Jordan River, nature is woven into the fabric of our lives. In the Murray City School District, we believe that education should be just as integrated. By weaving environmental science through every grade level—from kindergarten through high school graduation—we aren’t just teaching kids about trees and wildlife; we are preparing them for the careers and challenges of the 21st century.

Building a Foundation of Wonder

Nature-based learning starts with curiosity. In elementary school, the outdoors serves as a sensory-rich environment where abstract concepts become tangible. When a student steps outside to study the life cycle of a local plant or the flow of water, they aren't just memorizing facts; they are developing observational skills and a sense of stewardship.

This is where many of our students first encounter the Kennecott Nature Center. For an entire generation of Murray students, the center has been a cornerstone of their educational journey. Nestled along the Jordan River, it has acted as a portal where thousands of children have transformed from "students" into "young scientists." That early spark of wonder at the nature center often ignites a lifelong passion for discovery and critical thinking.

The Impact on Academic Success

The benefits of this approach are more than just anecdotal; they are backed by significant research. A systematic review conducted by Stanford University analyzed 119 peer-reviewed studies published over 20 years. The review found that environmental education led to a wide array of benefits, including significant improvements in academic performance, critical thinking, and student engagement. In fact, a staggering 98% of the studies examined showed positive knowledge gains for students across multiple disciplines.

From Discovery to Career Preparation

As students progress into middle and high school, the curriculum shifts from observation to application. This vertical integration is vital because the "green economy" is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the global workforce. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, clean energy jobs have recently expanded more than three times faster than the broader U.S. workforce, with massive growth projected in environmental engineering and resource management.

Beyond the career outlook, being outdoors significantly improves the learning environment itself. A study by the American Institutes for Research (AIR) found that students who participated in outdoor science programs saw a 27% increase in their measured mastery of science concepts compared to those in traditional classrooms.

Skills for a Lifetime

In Murray, we view environmental education as a long-term investment. By fostering a connection to the natural world, we ensure our students grow into adults who are not only career-ready but also deeply invested in the health and vibrancy of our community. From the first field trip to the Nature Center to the final senior science project, we are proud to empower the next generation of thinkers, doers, and stewards of our beautiful state.