Some Duval students spend time learning outdoors

A new multiyear initiative designed to cultivate student wellness through screen-free outdoor learning has been launched at three Duval County public schools.

ReconnectED, supported by a $350,000 grant through Project One Health JAX, will help students rebalance computer-heavy school days by bringing learning into natural spaces.

The initiative, also supported by the Jacksonville Public Education Fund, launches at SP Livingston Elementary School, Jacksonville STEM Academy and North Shore Elementary School, with the goal of expanding to other schools.

“Our goal is to make screen-free outdoor learning routine, not occasional, by helping teachers use outdoor spaces more intentionally across subjects and grade levels,” Heather Albritton, the district’s health and physical education director, said in a news release. “We know from research and practice that outdoor learning supports student wellness, attention, and engagement. ReconnectED gives teachers the structure, training, and support they need to bring those benefits into the school day in a practical way.”

Outdoors goals

Research compiled by the Children & Nature Network, which is part of the initiative, shows that outdoor learning and access to nature can improve children’s well-being in many ways, school officials said. In one review, 20 studies involving more than 3,200 primary schoolchildren found positive outcomes in mental health, academic performance, focus and social-emotional development.

Article continues below

More from Jax Today

Activists fight for cat colonies in St. Johns County

Countdown is on for Artemis II launch to the moon

Jaguars will play home games in Orlando in 2027

Jacksonville Today thanks our sponsors. Become one.

ReconnectED unfolds over three phases, beginning this spring semester and lasting through June of 2028. The first phase will focus on activation, hiring an outdoor learning specialist, adapting lessons for outdoor use and identifying learning zones at each school.

The second phase will center on coaching and piloting the model with teachers across subjects. The third phase will focus on refinement, districtwide guidance, and future expansion.

The initiative is built around four core components:

• Simple outdoor learning areas with basic seating and durable materials so teachers can take lessons outside easily
• Ready-to-use, screen-free outdoor lessons that connect to what teachers are already required to teach
• Training and coaching for teachers so they feel prepared to use outdoor spaces regularly and effectively
• Clear district guidelines to support safety, consistency, and strong instruction as the model expands

District leaders selected the three pilot schools to represent different grade levels and learning needs.

• SP Livingston Elementary’s program will focus on building early habits of wellness and engagement.
• At Jacksonville STEM Academy, now focusing on agriculture, technology, hydroponics, and STEM, the initiative will engage students through nature-based learning promoting emotional regulation and social connection.
• At North Shore Elementary, the initiative will help students build curiosity and healthy routines through outdoor exploration.

ReconnectED is part of the broader Project One Health JAX initiative, which works to reduce harmful screen time and restore stronger connections between children, families and nature. School officials said it is designed for long-term sustainability, with curriculum tools, lesson adaptations and guidance designed to remain after the grant period ends.

Officials are also pursuing additional funding to support related work, including greenhouse and farm-to-school opportunities, with plans to replicate the program at schools across Jacksonville.