Harrison receives outdoor learning grant from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources

Students at Harrison Education Center will benefit from a $5,000 grant to support outdoor learning activities during the 2026-27 school year. 

"Last year we took the students to the Oliver Kelley Farm, which was a huge hit," said Harrison teacher Laura Chaffee. The students got to interact with farm animals, learn about agriculture and see a historic 1800s farmhouse. "Most students have not experienced these types of outdoor education opportunities." 

This grant will help fund another farm field trip this year, as well as a series of outdoor education field trips at the Three Rivers Park District over the course of the year.

These trips will occur across the different seasons, so students will experience the changes in environment and observe plants and animal habitats. The grant will fund transportation, program fees and supplies related to these experiences. 

Activities and themes include...

• hiking with a naturalist
• exploring how nature adapts as the seasons change
• learning about forests and trees
• Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing
• developing wilderness and teambuilding skills

Project title: Harrison Students Outdoor Learning Series
Grant Award Amount: $5,000
Project Duration: Sept. 1, 2026 - June 1,2027

MPS Leadership Contact
Malvirce Edwards, Principal
malvirce.edwards@mpls.k12.mn.us
612-668-2680

Grant Management Contact
Laura Chaffee, Teacher
laura.chafee@mpls.k12.mn.us
612-668-2680

This project is funded by the State of Minnesota and administered by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. All services and programming supported through this grant acknowledge the State of Minnesota as the sponsoring agency.