AUSTIN (KXAN) — The Austin Independent School District celebrated the opening of its new Wonderland and Outdoor Learning Center, or OWL, Friday on the former campus of Metz Elementary School in East Austin.
The center is a nature-based outdoor learning environment “designed to provide students with hands-on outdoor experiential opportunities,” according to AISD.
The center reflects the district’s “strong commitment to integrating nature into every part of the educational experience — from active play and park habitats to nature trails and quiet meditation spaces,” AISD said in a news release.
(KXAN Photo/Aidan Boyd)
(KXAN Photo/Aidan Boyd)
Research shows that students who play and learn outdoors are healthier, happier and more academically engaged, the statement said.
The OWL Center was established with a $2.5 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education.
Metz Elementary School was established in 1993 and closed after the 2019-2020 school year. Since its closure, the 61,905-square-foot school facility has been closed Continue home For many AISD departments and programs.