Urgent Outdoor School Funding Information 

 

June 3, 2025

On June 2nd, 2025, the education subcommittee of the Joint Ways and Means Committee passed a drastic cut to Outdoor School funding. The cut amounts to about $12 million, a reduction of 20% from current service level to what is needed to continue full Outdoor School programming across Oregon.

It’s not too late. Please reach out right away to the full Joint Committee on Ways and Means and your own Senator and Representative to urge them to restore full Outdoor School funding. Key points to mention:

  • Honor the intent of the voters, who overwhelmingly passed Ballot Measure 99 in 2016.

  • This year Outdoor School saw record participation across Oregon, exceeding pre-pandemic levels.

  • Outdoor School is lottery funded. While the lottery revenue is down a small amount (0.4%), the forecast does not warrant the proposed 20% cut from current service level to Outdoor School.

  • Include your own personal or professional perspective on the importance of full Outdoor School funding, if you’d like.

Because Outdoor School is lottery funded, it does not take dollars from K-12 education or important social services in the general fund. We also recognize that so many important state and local programs are in jeopardy, having real effects on people and communities. We encourage everyone to reach out to your elected officials to share your opinions about budget and policy proposals. They really do need to hear from their constituents.

Below are links you can use to email or call all of the members of Ways and Means and to find your legislator’s contact information. Thank you for your support for Outdoor School, and don’t hesitate to reach out to us if you have any questions.

BUS IT TO SALEM FOR OUTDOOR SCHOOL!

Join us to stand up for Outdoor School, Outdoor School funding,
and most importantly, Oregon kids. SAVE OUTDOOR SCHOOL!

WHERE:
Friday, June 6th
Oregon State Capitol
900 Court St NE, Salem
Ways & Means Committee Hearing (8:30am)
Personal meetings with legislators
Meet near the bus drop-off on Court Street at 8:00am

BRING:
Wood cookie and Outdoor School gear
Empty water bottles
Money for lunch - food is not allowed through security
More security information

RIDE THE BUS!:
Leaving at 7:00 am SHARP!
Meet at Barbur Transit Center
9660 SW Barbur Blvd, Portland
Returning from Salem at 1:30 pm
Bus space is limited - MUST RSVP
RSVP to Ride the Bus


Email Kim with questions.
FOR THE KIDS!