The parents of students at St. John Catholic School in Arthur have taken the first step in creating an outdoor learning area on school grounds.
On Sept. 15, four members of the outdoor learning enhancement committee, which is part of the larger Catholic school council, donated $2,325 to the school.
The group’s goal is to raise $20,000 to construct an outdoor classroom to be used by students and teachers throughout the year.
What the classroom will look like is still up in the air.
“We don’t have a clear plan as of right now, other than a lot of ideas of things we would like to do, and we know some things that we’re probably going to avoid,” said Jessica Charlton, one of the parents involved.
Sarah Rooyakkers, another committee member, says the outdoor learning space will be a welcome change to the school.
“There have been very little changes to the exterior base at this school in 20 years, so we’d like to give something to the kids that they can enjoy and have fun with,” said Rooyakkers.
The committee is hoping the outdoor natural area will help foster inquiry-based learning.
“We want to have items that children can enhance their learning with … you’re thinking about what you’re doing, they are cooperating, they’re using their own ideas,” said committee member Cristol James.
“Something that all the classrooms, all the age ranges can enjoy and get something from,” added Charlton.
The parents, as well at St. John Catholic School principal David Marcoccia, see the value of learning outside in a natural environment.
“I think enhancing any aspect of the school is important,” said Marcoccia.
“Twenty-first century learning isn’t just in the classroom … learning happens everywhere.”
The committee has a rough idea of a five-year plan and hopes to raise around $20,000 toward the enhancement area.
The group will also be looking for input from teachers, students and community members.
“We would like the get the community involved … for support for one, and for them to benefit as well,” said James.
“Our community does use the ball diamonds, they use the field for soccer, so we are going to be aware of that.”
While, the group has a long way to go, its members are excited about the project.
“The possibilities are endless,” said committee member Jennifer Guidotti.
The first donation of $2,325 was from a bottle drive, Tupperware fundraiser, barbecue and yard sale held over the summer.
