Austin ISD Expands Outdoor Learning with Opening of New OWL Center

Join Austin ISD Superintendent Matias Segura, Congressman Lloyd Doggett and district trustees for the opening ceremony of the new Outdoor Wonder & Learning (OWL) Center - a nature-based outdoor learning environment designed to provide students with hands-on, experiential opportunities in the outdoors.

The OWL Center reflects the district's strong commitment to integrating nature into every part of the educational experience - from active play and garden habitats to nature trails and quiet reflection spaces.

At the heart of this initiative is the belief that learning extends far beyond classroom walls. Research shows that students who play and learn outdoors are healthier, happier, and more engaged academically.

Background: The Outdoor Wonder & Learning (OWL) Center was established through a $2.15 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education. Since Metz closed as a school campus in 2019, the site has continued to serve the community as home to several Austin ISD resource centers.

What: Austin ISD will celebrate the ribbon-cutting of the new Outdoor Wonder & Learning (OWL) Center, which will provide outdoor learning experiences for students and professional development for teachers, while remaining open to the public during non-school hours.

Who: Superintendent Matias Segura, Congressman Lloyd Doggett, members of the Board of Trustees, and Austin ISD leaders.

When: 1 p.m. Friday, Oct. 31

Where: Metz Elementary School (former campus), 84 Robert T. Martinez Jr St., Austin, TX 78702 (Entrance through the SW parking lot off of Anthony St. & Canterbury St.)

Media: Will have the opportunity to shoot B-roll of the ribbon-cutting, students and staff in the outdoor learning setting.

Please RSVP with the Austin ISD media team via email.