Muddy Sneakers Celebrates Remarkable Impact at Mid-Year Milestone

Today, Muddy Sneakers Outdoor Classroom announces a momentous mid-year impact.

Since the beginning of the academic year, Muddy Sneakers has facilitated 29,257 student hours in the field, conducting 143 field expeditions that have taken students on awe-inspiring journeys that connect their classroom curriculum to real-world applications in nature. The organization explored and engaged with nature in 30 different public lands. Sites include DuPont State Recreational Forest, Pisgah National Forest, Catawba Ecological Preserve, and Pilot Mountain State Park. These expeditions demonstrates Muddy Sneakers’ commitment to fostering a deep connection between students and the natural world,

An additional 6,278 student hours of interactive classroom-based instruction over the course of 58 Muddy Sneakers Live Online sessions further enhanced students’ understanding of how their science curriculum connects to the world around them.

Muddy Sneakers firmly believes the best classroom is the one that’s outside. The nonprofit extends heartfelt gratitude to its supporters, partners, and donors. These individuals and organizations have made these outdoor experiences possible for the state’s public school students.

Fifth-grade teacher Abby Bumgarner from Mabel School in Watauga County shared the following in this year’s annual mid-year evaluation survey. “Muddy Sneakers has given my students the opportunity to learn and explore right in their backyard, while also gaining deeper knowledge of the NC Science Standards.”

Cody Bliss, Muddy Sneakers’ Director of Programs, says, “The impact of these experiences extends far beyond the classroom, as students immerse themselves in the magical landscapes that make North Carolina unique. Through hands-on exploration, guided by the wisdom of the great outdoors, our students are not merely learning science; they are living it.”

Despite these impactful statistics, Muddy Sneakers is not done yet. The organization is looking forward to the second half of the school year. During the upcoming semester, students will continue to be inspired through an anticipated additional 50,000+ hours of nature-based learning.