Scouts Dig In to Build Outdoor Learning Space

Oct 05, 2026 05:04PM ● By Chelsea Carlson, Program Chair, Pioneer Express District

For the Scouts, the project was an opportunity to practice teamwork, give back to a local school and leave behind something that students will be able to enjoy for years to come. Courtesy photo

CARMICHAEL, CA (MPG) - Shovels hit the ground the morning of Saturday, Sept. 26 as local Scouts traded a morning of free time for four hours of hard work helping create a new outdoor learning space at Cameron Ranch Elementary School.

Approximately 25 Scouts and adult volunteers from Scouting America Troop 55 of Carmichael and Troops 310 and 311 of Orangevale came together for the community service project, working side by side to transform part of the school’s garden into a future outdoor classroom.

Local Scouts traded a morning of free time for four hours of hard work helping create a new outdoor learning space at Cameron Ranch Elementary School. Courtesy photo

Cameron Ranch Elementary recently began developing the learning area, which will eventually feature tables and benches where students can gather for lessons and activities. The project is expected to be completed by the end of the year.

The Scouts’ work focused on preparing the area for its next stage. Volunteers installed edging along one side of the learning space, dug down and leveled the ground, and finished the area with decomposed granite.

The Scouts’ work focused on preparing the area for its next stage. Courtesy photo

For the Scouts, the project was more than just moving dirt. It was an opportunity to practice teamwork, give back to a local school and leave behind something that students will be able to enjoy for years to come.

As the outdoor learning area takes shape, Cameron Ranch Elementary is gaining a new place for students to learn outside the classroom — thanks in part to a group of local Scouts who were willing to roll up their sleeves and get to work.