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Hayward

Foundations in Nature: TK–Kindergarten Outdoor Learning Program

Grant Amount

$20,000

Year Awarded

2026-2027

Project Coordinator

Katie McGowan

Grant Type

Team

Local Association

Hayward Education Association

Focus Area

Garden and Outdoor Learning

About the Project

Our TK and Kindergarten program is committed to providing inclusive, high-quality learning experiences for every child. Currently, our asphalt playground limits opportunities for exploration and meaningful connection to nature. For many of our students, school is their primary access point to green space. We seek funding to transform this area into an immersive, play-based outdoor classroom rooted in nature. Access to nature is not equitably distributed, and this disparity impacts children’s health, development, and well-being. This project will help close that gap by creating a rich outdoor environment where all students can explore and learn. Planned features include planter boxes, a sensory garden, mud kitchens, a water table, a sandbox, shaded areas, and spaces for building, climbing, and movement.
By integrating natural elements into daily learning, students will engage in hands-on, inquiry-based experiences that support academic growth, creativity, and social-emotional development. This project ensures every child has equitable access to the benefits of nature-based learning.

Meet the Project Coordinator

Katie McGowan

I am a TK Teacher at Stonebrae Elementary School in Hayward, CA where I have taught for 10 years and have been involved in the Early Childhood Education community for the past 20 years. Currently, our TK and Kindergarten asphalt playground limits opportunities for exploration and meaningful connection to nature. In an effort to support the developmental needs of our young learners, our team has been inspired by other early educators to transform this area into an immersive, play-based outdoor classroom rooted in nature. Research has shown time and again that when young children have access to meaningful nature spaces, they experience enhanced cognitive, emotional, and physical development. The benefits of unstructured outdoor play are astronomical and include improved concentration, problem solving and critical thinking skills, and reduced stress and anxiety. Our project hopes to bring the joy and benefits of playing in nature to ALL the students we serve.

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