The Irma Lewis Outdoor Learning Center (ILOLC) in Seguin, Texas, has a rich history rooted in the vision and dedication of Irma Lewis, a local physical education teacher with a passion for outdoor education. The journey began in the 1970s when Lewis, recognizing the profound impact of outdoor activities on students, developed an outdoor education curriculum at Seguin High School. Her innovative approach included unconventional methods, such as rappelling off a highway overpass due to the lack of steep terrain in the area.
In 1995, Carla Blumberg, a local resident, donated 23 acres along Geronimo Creek to establish a permanent site for Lewis's work. This donation marked the official founding of the Seguin Outdoor Learning Center. The center quickly grew, expanding to over 115 acres with the support of the community, local businesses, and various foundations. By 1997, the Texas Outdoor Education Association recognized SOLC as the Outstanding Outdoor Education Program in the state (H. E. Butt Foundation) (Nature Rocks Austin).
The ILOLC provides a range of educational and recreational opportunities, including hiking, birding, fishing, canoeing, and more. It has become a cherished resource for the community, offering programs that connect children and families with nature (Nature Rocks Austin) (Seguin ISD). In 2023, the Seguin Independent School District acquired the ILOLC ensuring the continuation of Lewis's vision and its integration into the district's educational offerings (Seguin ISD).
Overall, the ILOLC stands as a testament to Irma Lewis's pioneering spirit and her commitment to outdoor education, benefiting countless students and families in the Seguin area.