Our New Schoolwide Focus: Low-Tech, Nature-Based Learning

Starting with the 2026-2027 school year, we're proud to share that Maple Elementary School is embracing a new schoolwide focus built around a simple belief: Where Learning Lives Outdoors. This philosophical shift is one that will benefit students of all grade levels at Maple, and includes:

Daily Outdoor Learning Experiences for All Students:
At Maple, learning will extend beyond the four walls of a classroom. Students will spend meaningful time outdoors every day engaging in nature-based learning, environmental exploration, movement, creative expression, and collaborative problem-solving. Hands-on learning connected to nature and the local environment will be integrated across subject areas in the school’s outdoor learning spaces, gardens and shared community areas to grow collaboration and empathy - naturally.

Low-Tech Emphasis: 
There will be a balanced, low-technology approach for all grade levels, with technology use limited, and reserved for intentional, meaningful use. There will be no chromebooks for Maple’s Transitional Kindergarten and Kindergarten classes. Students will not bring chromebooks home in first through third grades. 

Impactful Community Partnerships:
Maple is developing partnerships with community organizations to support and enhance their new schoolwide focus: Where Learning Lives Outdoors. This includes unique collaborative experiences with the National Wildlife Federation (Annenberg Wildlife Crossing), Conejo Open Space Conservation Agency, Conejo Parks and Recreation and Students for Eco-Education & Agriculture. In August, Maple was awarded an Ocean Guardian School grant from the National Oceanic and Administration (NOAA), the first step in becoming a NOAA Ocean Guardian School. 

What it Looks Like:
This spring, Maple’s teachers began thoughtfully integrating these enhancements into the school’s daily schedule. The response from students, staff, and families has been overwhelmingly positive. Students have displayed increased engagement, collaboration, and connectedness to their learning.

We invite you to watch the video below to see how Maple is growing strong roots of an outdoor learning community that supports students’ academic progress, social-emotional development, and overall well-being.

As part of this transition, Maple has also introduced a new school mascot: the Mountain Lion. This change helps to give Maple a unique identity in the Conejo, while also strengthening their connection to the local environment and the Newbury Park community. Students recently learned about P-22 in science class and discovered that he was born within the Maple attendance area, creating a meaningful local connection to the Mountain lion identity.

Ready to learn more? Click here to complete the Maple Elementary School Tour form, or call Maple's front office to register to attend an upcoming tour date: (805) 498-6748.