The Outdoor Learning Center is an interpretive, hands-on educational facility

Our building houses an indoor learning space for students consisting of a presentation auditorium, a laboratory classroom, an educational live animal program, and nature trails. The trail system is located on a 15-acre wooded area on Rowlett Creek adjacent to Bob Woodruff Park. The land is maintained by the City of Plano through a cooperative agreement with the city's Parks and Recreation Department. Field-based trail lessons and indoor laboratory activities are provided by HSLC teaching staff and trained volunteers.

I hear y'all have animals?

Our Animals

Nearly all of the animals utilized for education at the HSLC are rehomed by their former owners, confiscated and placed at the Center by local animal service agencies, or are permanently housed at the Center with the permission of Texas Parks and Wildlife. Native animals held under our educational display permit have been deemed "unreleasable" (unable to survive in the wild) by an experienced wildlife rehabilitator and/or veterinary professional educated in that animal’s care.

The HSLC is an integral part of Plano ISD students' learning experience in science education, environmental education, and integrated learning activities.

Who We Serve

Presently, the HSLC sees students from 1^st, 3^rd, and 4^th grade each week throughout the school year. As a part of Plano ISD’s elementary curriculum students explore life cycles, the needs of living things, metamorphosis, the interconnectedness of the environment, energy systems, and the practice of scientific investigation.

Our program also provides unique, enriching, and educational experiences for Plano ISD's K, 2^nd grade, and high school students through curriculum based animal outreach programs and hands on volunteer learning opportunities.