Supports DCSD Strategic Goals

Relevant Sustainable Development Goals

Biodiversity and School Yard Habitats

• Expand schoolyard habitats, pollinator gardens, and native plant landscapes across DCSD campuses to support biodiversity.
• Support edible schoolyard gardens that connect students to food systems, nutrition education, and hands-on learning.
• Incorporate native plant landscaping into schoolyard habitat.
• Promote tree planting and campus canopy growth to provide shade, improve air quality, and reduce heat island impacts on school grounds.

Outdoor Learning Environment

• Edible School Yard Gardens: Edible gardens that provide nutritious, environmentally responsible foods served within DCSD facilities and serve as outdoor learning environments to connect students with food systems, nutrition, and environmental education.
• Sustainability Curriculum Integration: Sustainability concepts incorporated into outdoor classroom instruction and experiential learning opportunities across grade levels.
• Expand green infrastructure and campus landscaping practices that support stormwater management, shade, and heat-island reduction in outdoor classroom spaces.
• Integrate nature-based learning opportunities in outdoor areas, walking trails, and quiet reflection spaces for students and staff.