Our EAST Outdoor Classroom project started with a simple idea: we wanted to learn outside and help the environment at the same time. Our school didn’t have a space like that, so our team decided to create one. We have planned and have begun building an outdoor classroom where students can learn about nature, science, and technology while being surrounded by the outdoors.
After looking around campus we settled on an area that is enclosed on three sides, is accessible by all students and is in an area that is not being utilized. We had to come up with smart ideas, like using rainwater for the garden and picking plants that don’t need a lot of water to grow.
We also learned new things by using advanced technology. We used 3D design software to make plans for benches and signs. We hope to install weather sensors and even make QR codes that people can scan to learn about the animals and plants in the area. We also looked at how to use solar energy so our classroom could be powered in a clean way.
We have built picnic tables for the center of the area and have other seating areas planned.
We worked with several local businesses. Ace Hardware, Home Depot and JT White donated materials. Mr. Hefner, Mr. Humphrey and Mr. Sutton lent us the tools to build and came to help us build our tables.
This project has real-world importance because it helps more than just our school. It’s a place where people can learn about the environment and how to take care of it. Teachers can bring classes out there for science experiments or reading time. It will also help the local wildlife by giving them a safe space with native plants and flowers that support bees and butterflies.
Everyone on our team had different jobs—some of us worked on design, others helped with planting, and some did the research or talked to community members for help. We had to listen to each other, share ideas, and work together to get everything done.
When complete it will be a fun and peaceful place where people can learn and enjoy nature, and we’re proud of what we’ve built. It’s not just a classroom—it’s a way to make a difference.