SPOKANE, Wash. — A new outdoor learning space is now available for Spokane students and teachers to enjoy some fresh air while engaging with important lessons.
A ribbon cutting will be held on Tuesday morning for Spokane Public School’s On Track Academy’s new ‘Schoolyard Forest,’ also known as the ‘Meet Us at the Trees’ space.
Together, local organizations, City of Spokane Urban Forestry, and SPS teachers and students worked together to build the outdoor learning center located on the Hillyard Community Campus, just north of On Track Academy on the shared playfield with Shaw Middle School.
According to Spokane Public Schools, the space offers a non-traditional classroom setting focused on increasing awareness of environmental issues and supporting student wellness.
The space is meant to be a meeting place for both schools and the larger community.
“This year, middle school classes will lead development of the understory. Senior citizens in low-income housing nearby will be able to walk the loop, and high schoolers will meet elementary students from across the street at the trees – to connect, mentor, inspire and empower the next generation of students,” said Jene Ray, Director of The ZONE and Youth Wellness Zone Spokane.
On Track Academy, Shaw Middle School and Regal Elementary are some of the first schools expected to utilize the outdoor space.
For more information, visit www.facebook.com/ontrackacademy.
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