Our ‘Why’ from Starting to Systems Change
We are shifting towards systems change work and believe outdoor equity can be achieved through relationships, connections, working together, empowering teachers and daily access to outdoor learning in schoolyards.
What does Outdoor Equity really mean? We asked the Community!
Outdoor equity means everyone belongs in nature, and every community deserves meaningful, accessible, and culturally rooted opportunities to connect with and care for the outdoors.
Community Definition (New Mexico Communities including conversations from the Outdoor Learning Conference in Banff Nationa Park, Canada 2026)
Outdoor Equity ensures fair and inclusive access to nature and outdoor spaces for all beings. It prioritizes those furthest from opportunity—especially youth, Native communities, and urban populations—by creating opportunities to explore, learn, build relationships with the land, and foster meaningful connections through nature.
Outdoor equity means removing barriers to access, creating welcoming environments where everyone feels comfortable and supported, and integrating outdoor learning and connection opportunities throughout communities, formal education, public health systems, and social norms. It recognizes the importance of time outdoors for health, well-being, and reciprocal relationships with the natural world.
Outdoor equity also emphasizes respect for the land, honors cultural connections and ways of knowing, and supports a shift from a human-centric mindset toward an eco-centric relationship that values and cares for all living systems. Everyone belongs in nature, and all beings deserve opportunities to connect with and care for the outdoors in ways that are meaningful, accessible, and rooted in relationship and respect.
-Community Definition
How can we better work together to achieve outdoor equity?
At TOTAL NM, we believe in the power of connection, togetherness, inclusivity and accessibility so all learners, especially those furthest from the resources, can receive daily outdoor learning opportunities. We recognize this definition as a living and evolving reflection of collective community voice, shaped through our ongoing conversations across diverse landscapes, cultures, and experiences.
How we Achieve Outdoor Equity
Achieving outdoor equity requires more than access; it requires systems change. The NM Outdoor Classrooms Framework provides a shared structure that connects educators, schools, and communities to a common vision for outdoor learning. By embedding equity into daily practice, professional development, and statewide collaboration, the framework ensures that outdoor education becomes accessible, sustainable, and inclusive for all learners.
The results of the Outdoor Educator Leadership Program, TOTAL NM Team, and all other contributors to the creation of the framework demonstrate what is possible when educators are supported, connected, and empowered. From increased student engagement to the creation of sustainable outdoor learning spaces, these outcomes represent a shift from one-time experiences to daily practice—advancing a systems-level approach to outdoor equity across New Mexico.
The ‘Why’ We Hear From Educators
Here are just some of the responses we have received from educators when we asked why they support, and are working to expand, outdoor learning:
“Outdoor learning stimulates a student’s curiosity about the world around them which leads to higher engagement and meaningful learning experiences.” -APS Educator
“Learning exists in all spaces, not just four walls. Getting outdoors, getting fresh air, vitamin D, and having fun all add to a learner’s experience.” – Caleb Crum
“I support daily outdoor learning because I know that it is what’s best for our children. Kids need to connect with nature in order to support their physical, mental, spiritual and emotional best health with hopes we’re growing future caretakers of New Mexico’s beautiful lands.” – Kimberly Caputo
“Outdoor learning is essential for all schools to adopt for a balanced education and for fostering healthy kids mentally and physically.“ – Lindsey Diaz