Outdoor Learning

Environmental Education Zone

Environmental Education Zones should provide opportunities for gardening, gathering, outdoor instruction, and exploration - all with the emphasis on the surrounding environment. Educational opportunities should be incorporated, such as rainwater harvesting and open beds for instructional planting and cultivation. Landscaping should incorporate perennials and native plant species. Hardscaping should respond to site constraints including existing trees, steep grades, and established wetlands, where possible.

Environmental Education Zone

Environmental Education Zones should provide opportunities for gardening, gathering, outdoor instruction, and exploration - all with the emphasis on the surrounding environment. Educational opportunities should be incorporated, such as rainwater harvesting and open beds for instructional planting and cultivation. Landscaping should incorporate perennials and native plant species. Hardscaping should respond to site constraints including existing trees, steep grades, and established wetlands, where possible.

Sioux Falls Jefferson HS

Landscape

Landscaping should consider plants that are native, drought tolerant, and that thrive in the local environment. Maintenance should be considered when incorporating grass and plants throughout the site. Perennials are preferred when available. Landscaping is important for design and sustainability of the site.

Garden City HS

Neal Dow ES

Hardscape

Site walks, site paths, socialization areas, and plazas are all part of the hardscape strategy. These elements need to be accessible, easily maintained, paved in a light color to reduce solar heat gain, structured to maximize rainwater and runoff capture, and shaded as needed. Night lighting should be provided for evening uses and safety.

Grand View ES

Jefferson City HS

Sensory + Nutritional Gardens

Opportunities for hands-on discovery and exploration through gardening should be provided. Sensory gardens can be incorporated into instructional communities while nutritional gardens with raised beds should be adjacent to Food Service areas.

Leavenworth - Intermediate Center

Braddock ES

Durable Seating

Spaces shall provide durable seating that can withstand outdoor use and be easily cleaned. Seating for Environmental Learning Zones can be hardscaped or made from natural materials including stumps, logs, boulders, and stepping stones.

Southridge ES

Inspiration View ES

Socialization and Play

A crucial balance to direct instruction during a student's day is play and socialization. Access to interactive and creative outdoor space allows for play-based learning. Accessible Outdoor Learning areas that are appropriately sized for students shall be provided for users to read, play, explore, rest, and meet with others. Easy supervision from single vantage points and appropriate materials will uphold a safe play environment.

Leavenworth - Intermediate Center

Capps MS