Maryland Expands Schoolyard Forests Program for Earth Week

​State officials are working to expand outdoor learning and tree planting efforts in schools as part of Earth Week initiatives.

The Maryland State Department of Education, Department of the Environment, and Department of Natural Resources are promoting the Schoolyard Forests Program, which helps schools create green spaces for hands-on learning and environmental education.

The program is part of the state’s 5 Million Trees initiative, which has already reached a milestone of more than 1.5 million trees planted toward a goal of 5 million by 2031.

Officials say the effort is designed to improve student well-being, support environmental learning, and increase access to outdoor spaces at schools across Maryland.

State leaders say expanding the program will help create healthier school environments while also supporting long-term environmental and climate goals.