Schoolyard Forests Program Grows in MD

Students at Northview Elementary School planted 30 trees on April 20, 2026, with help from the Maryland Forest Service. (Maryland DNR photo)

For Earth Week in April, three state agencies collaborated to increase participation in the Schoolyard Forests Program.

The Maryland State Department of Education, Maryland Department of the Environment, and Maryland Department of Natural Resources connected outdoor learning with the Maryland 5 Million Trees initiative.

The Schoolyard Forests Program, which is administered by the DNR Maryland Forest Service, helps schools create outdoor spaces that support student well-being and enrich learning through tree planting, tree care, and environmental education.

The 5 Million Trees program has reached more than 1.5 million native trees planted, marking a major milestone toward the state’s goal of planting 5 million trees by 2031.

One of the Earth Week events took place at Northview Elementary School in Prince George’s County where students planted 30 redbud, flowering dogwood, and tulip poplar trees.

“As students take part in planting and caring for these trees, they are not only learning about the environment but building a sense of pride and connection to their schools and communities,” said Dr. Carey M. Wright, state superintendent of schools. “The Schoolyard Forest Program shows the power of hands-on learning to inspire our youth and protect our environment.”

“By expanding the Schoolyard Forests Program, we are helping schools across Maryland create healthier, greener spaces where students can learn, play, and connect with nature,” said Secretary Serena McIlwain of the Maryland Department of the Environment. “These projects show how tree planting can bring communities together, improve air quality, and inspire the next generation of environmental leaders.”

“Study after study has shown that children perform better academically, develop enhanced problem-solving skills, and have reduced stress levels when they have access to outdoor learning opportunities at their schools,” said Secretary Josh Kurtz of the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. “By adding new trees and outdoor spaces to more schools in Maryland we’re creating these improved learning opportunities and ensuring that more students have access to natural areas.”

Since 2024, the program has partnered with the Maryland Association for Environmental and Outdoor Education and has completed more than 45 school planting projects.