2017 Paddle Raiser

The SVdP Outdoor Learning Lab

Seeking a new way, new methods, and new zeal, the outdoor learning lab will open the hearts of our children to the too-often overlooked wonders of the world around us!

While we have completed a lot of research in the outdoor learning lab, it is a process that will unfold “organically.” The overall concept is a certainty, and each of the below projects is reasonably hopeful.  However, we may need to make specific decisions that will be in keeping with the overall goals of the program and the good or our teachers and students.

Here are a few cornerstones of the project as it exists at this time:

• Greenhouse – A greenhouse offers a variety of STEM lessons in season and out of season. While the greenhouse will be enjoyed by all grades, the scientific applications, such as growing hydroponic plants, will primarily involve middle school students.

• Raised Garden Beds – All grade levels will work with the raised garden beds for a variety of summer and fall harvest of vegetables and herbs.

• Butterfly Gardens – Butterfly gardens are not only beautiful, but they house an amazing ecosystem from the chrysalis to hatched butterfly.

   

• Raising Chickens – From incubated egg, to hatching chick, to egg-laying hen, the witness of this life cycle engages the senses, the imagination, the critical thought of young and old alike.

Special thanks to Jon Crabtree with AJ Kirkegaard Construction, Inc. and Chris Turner and Paul Wrona with Elevate By Design for assisting us on this project!

Paddle Raiser Goal: $45k