Outdoor Classroom Takes Learning to New Heights in Madison
Madison is buzzing with excitement as Midtown Elementary School unveils its brand new Outdoor Classroom! This innovative space is not just a pretty addition to the school; it’s a hands-on learning environment where students can soak up knowledge while getting a taste of the great outdoors. Last week, students celebrated the grand opening of a fantastic new facility that promises to transform the way they learn.
Thanks to Generous Donations
The whole project came to life thanks to the tremendous effort of the Midtown PTA, who generously donated a whopping $20,000 to make this dream a reality. Principal Savannah Demeester shared her gratitude with a heartfelt shoutout to PTA President Allison Finley and all the members who jumped in to bring this project to fruition. “A big thanks to Midtown PTA and President Allison Finley, along with others, for making this happen,” she said.
A Community Effort
This wonderful transformation took teamwork and dedication. During the development process, the PTA coordinated all sorts of essential tasks, like installing concrete walkways to ensure the space is accessible for all students—way to go! They also helped order building materials, contacted volunteers, and even secured food donations for the big Build Day.
Build Day Success
Speaking of Build Day, it was a jam-packed affair with eager volunteers rolling up their sleeves. April Waltz, the Outdoor Classroom Specialist with the Alabama Wildlife Federation, played a crucial role in leading the charge and overseeing the logistics. She worked closely with both the school and the PTA to develop a comprehensive plan that aligned with Midtown’s vision. On that day, enthusiastic students from the Bob Jones High School’s Future Teachers of America Chapter, led by advisor Meagan Fleenor, also joined in the fun! Together, they helped with planting, moving landscape pavers, and more. Who doesn’t love getting hands dirty for a good cause?
What’s Inside the Outdoor Classroom?
The new Outdoor Classroom features some exciting components that will undoubtedly enrich the students’ learning experiences. Some of the highlights include a songbird garden, frog and toad habitat, and a butterfly garden. The students will also have access to a log decomposition station and a weather station. Can you imagine learning about the world around them while surrounded by nature?
Students will be learning about the importance of natural cycles, such as the carbon and nitrogen cycles, through maintenance of a rotting log station, compost bins, and even through the fascinating world of vermicomposting with worms. It’s an educational adventure right outside their classroom!
Bringing the World of Weather into Focus
For those budding meteorologists, the weather station is especially cool, complete with tools like an anemometer for measuring wind speed and direction, a thermometer for temperature, and a hygrometer to gauge humidity. Students can also track rainfall using a rain gauge. These user-friendly instruments will allow them to record measurements and see weather patterns firsthand.
Expanding Horizons
Principal Demeester highlighted the significant benefits of spending time outdoors, noting that it aids in improving mental health and allows children a refreshing break from screens. With various learning environments available, excitement and engagement are sure to spike!
As this new venture unfolds, Midtown Elementary School is setting the stage for enriched learning experiences, making education an adventure filled with exploration and fun—who knew classrooms could be so lively? Here’s hoping this inspires other schools to follow suit and create similar engaging learning spaces!
