Abstract
This qualitative case study examined how outdoor education and experiences benefit fourth-grade students in a dual-immersion, Title I elementary school located in Sacramento, California. Grounded in critical methodology and rasquache pedagogy, the study utilized bilingual open-ended surveys and a plática to gather students’ perspectives. A thematic analysis identified three central themes: 1) outdoor spaces support emotional well-being and joy, 2) outdoor experiences are rooted in family and community, and 3) outdoor environments spark curiosity, learning and exploration. Findings suggest that outdoor education can serve as a culturally meaningful and humanizing context for Latinx youth by affirming their identities, strengthening community ties, and fostering curiosity. The study highlights the need for culturally sustaining outdoor learning integrated into daily school practice.