From the Wire...
Hey 4th graders! This one’s for you (and your family).
In an initiative to protect our nation’s unique landscapes and to ensure that every American has the opportunity to enjoy them, the US Government is once again enacting the Every Kid in a Park Program in which 4th grade students and their families are granted free admission to National Parks and other federal lands and waters through August 2017.
In its second year, Every Kid in a Park is an
easy-to-sign-up program that issues a printable pass to 4th grade students, good for all kids in the group under the age of 16 and three adults (up to the capacity of a passenger car).
The pass gives families access to literally hundreds of parks throughout the nation. The program even offers some
handy planning tools to make the most of your trips (or for alternate
travel ideas, check out the National Park Foundation’s downloadable guides.)
Some of California’s own parks include Yosemite, Sequoia & Kings Canyon, Redwood National Park, Muir Woods, Joshua Tree, Channel Islands, and so many more.
4th graders were selected due to their growing curiosity about the world and lasting impact of making America’s varied, stunning, and vast outdoor spaces a student’s living classroom. The program was also started due to the recognition that more than 80 percent of American families live in urban areas and, according to
a study by the Kaiser Family Foundation, American youth spend an average of 7+ hours per day on electronics.
With outdoor access easier than ever, it’s time get outside and experience the awe of our unique lands and national monuments!
Please note that a printed pass is required for entry (no electronic copies) and that, since some parks are privately owned, it is recommended to call individual parks prior to visiting.
For more information, visit
everykidinapark.gov.
