Schoolyard Habitat Program

The Schoolyard Habitat Program brings natural science exploration to local schools. The program restores under-utilized spaces of school campuses into diverse, native habitats and outdoor classrooms, encouraging students to learn about scientific concepts through experience. By design, these lively spaces inspire learners to experience the awe and wonder of nature.

Using standards-based science lessons, Highlands Center staff, alongside classroom teachers, empower students to become wise caretakers of the land and cultivate a sense of place through immersion in central highlands ecology and reflection in the outdoors.

Support Our Habitat Program

The Highlands Center is excited to renew our partnership with Taylor Hicks Elementary School.

The Schoolyard Habitat Program is supported each year by members and friends of the Highlands Center, and families and friends of our local elementary schools through the Arizona Tax Credit program.

Please give your tax donations to Taylor Hicks Elementary School.
Arizona Tax Credits can be made anytime prior to April 15, 2027.

Partner Schools

Every year, the Schoolyard Habitat Program has three school partners, each in a different phase of the program.

Current partners

Taylor Hicks (2022-present)

This blooming sanctuary hosts intrigue in unexpected places. Miniature water features, an artistic downspout, and a century-old tree provide inspirational microhabitats for deep learning.

Abia Judd (2023-present)

This diverse space, nicknamed the “Secret Garden” by young learners, invites nesting birds, burrowing rabbits, and marching ants to facilitate courses in nature-based discovery.

Lincoln (2022-present)

Surrounded by climbable granite boulders, the aromatic plants in this garden provide a sensory buffet for young learners, providing myriad opportunities for exploring through nature play and physical activity.

Alumni Partners

Past Schoolyard Habitat participants are equipped with skills and space to facilitate outdoor learning and maintain and sustain their native habitat gardens.

  • Granite Mountain Upper Elementary School
  • Humboldt Elementary School
  • Liberty Traditional School
  • Mountain Oak Charter School
  • Abia Judd Elementary
  • Glassford Hill Middle School
  • Lake Valley Elementary
  • Mountain View Elementary
  • Lincoln Elementary
  • Granville Elementary
  • Washington Traditional Elementary
  • Miller Valley Elementary
  • Territorial Elementary
  • Coyote Springs Elementary

Volunteer

Schoolyard Habitats depends on knowledgeable, motivated, and compassionate volunteers.

Whether you are interested in digging holes, seasonal projects, or maintaining irrigation systems, we would love to help you get involved.

Contact the education team for more information here: education@highlandscenter.org

Plan Your Visit or Program

Interested in an upcoming class, group visit, or school program? Reach out here and we’ll help you find the best fit.

Contact Us!