H.R. 8303: Revitalizing America’s Schoolyards Act of 2026

The "Revitalizing America’s Schoolyards Act of 2026" aims to enhance the outdoor spaces of elementary and secondary schools in the United States through grants offered by the Secretary of Education. The bill focuses on creating revitalized schoolyards that support ecological systems, provide hands-on learning opportunities, and foster social interactions among students while improving the overall well-being of children and adults.

Key Provisions

• Definitions: The bill defines eligible entities that can apply for grants, including local educational agencies, educational service agencies, and certain nonprofit organizations with expertise in outdoor education.
• Revitalized Schoolyards: A revitalized schoolyard is characterized as a park-like environment designed to enhance ecological systems, offer learning resources, and promote health and social interactions. This can include trees, gardens, outdoor meeting spaces, and is intended for public use outside of school hours.
• Grant Process: Grants will be awarded biennially and are structured in two phases: planning grants in the first year and potential implementation grants in the second year, contingent on approval and demonstrated viability of the project.
• Grant Funding: Grants will be limited to $1,000,000 total for both planning and implementation phases, with specific percentages allocated for each phase—30% for planning and 70% for implementation.
• Eligibility for Grants: Schools serving a high percentage of students eligible for free or reduced-price meals will receive priority. Planning grants will support the development of concept plans for revitalized schoolyards which include community input and sustainability considerations.
• Use of Funds: Planning grants will enable entities to design outdoor learning spaces, while implementation grants will fund the actual development. The bill emphasizes uses that incorporate ecological and educational goals and supports accessibility under the Americans with Disabilities Act.
• Clearinghouse Creation: A clearinghouse of information will be maintained by the Secretary, showcasing successful outdoor learning space models, best practices, and resources for schools to utilize in developing their projects.
• Appropriations Authorized: Funding for this initiative is authorized to be appropriated from fiscal years 2027 to 2031, ensuring financial support for the grants and related activities outlined in the legislation.

Overall, the bill aims to not only upgrade schoolyards but also create environments where students can engage with nature and enhance their educational experiences through outdoor learning.

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