Garrettsville – While school has been out for the summer break, folks at James A. Garfield Schools have been getting the JAG campus ready for students. In addition to the usual cleaning, mopping, and sanitizing that take place before every school year begins, crews have been hard at work digging, cementing, and planting more trees. And as a result of this hard work, students and staff will be able to take advantage of fresh air and sunshine during the school days in JAG’s new outdoor classroom spaces.
The new project takes advantage of the rectangular green space between the school buildings and the parking lot. And while the entire project will include five distinct spaces installed over a two-year period, three of those areas have been completed for use when students and staff return next week. The completed areas include space in front of the Board office, centrally located near the middle school, and at the southern corner near the Elementary School. In addition, the area by the Event entrance has been redesigned to improve the area’s look and function.
Walkways meander through the space, connecting distinct spaces that are nestled amid lawn and trees. The walkways also provide pedestrians safe passage from the schools to the parking lot, improving safety. According to Superintendant Ted Lysiak, sidewalks border the newly designed area, creating an additional buffer from the parking lot. The classroom areas will be equipped with either weather resistant furniture or with stone-covered benches to provide all-season seating in each space, to accommodate 25 to 30 people per area. In addition, the space that formerly held six trees now incorporates 26, which help separate and shade the areas and add beauty to the campus. The project was designed and installed by Novelty, Ohio landscape design firm, The Pattie Group.
But outdoor improvements like these provide more than just a more aesthetically pleasing space. Studies have shown that outdoor classrooms are a perfect setting for all subjects, not just those that focus on science and nature. The non-traditional setting also promotes creativity, nimble thinking, and problem-solving skills, which benefit learners of all ages. Research has also shown that just 30 minutes outdoors can promote better sleep, reduce stress and have been shown to reduce behavioral problems. The added benefit of improved immunity gained from spending time outside is a key benefit for the strange times we’re now in.
“We’ve been using our outdoor spaces more than ever, especially this past year,” Lysiak explained, “with students spending lunchtime on the football field or in front of the Board office as late as November and as early as February when the days are nice.” He added, “We’re fortunate to have this space, tucked back in a safe place on our campus. ”Regarding safety, Lysiak noted that teachers each have radios on their person in case of emergency. In addition, the outdoor spaces are wired with speakers connected to the building PA system, as well as visible cameras.
Lysiak explained that the space would be open to groups which typically meet at the schools, like the PTO, MVPs, and School Board. “Our community is so supportive of the schools, they’re welcome to enjoy the space, too.” Lysiak noted that sports teams may enjoy using the space to grill pre-game dinners as well. He speculated that although many students use Hiram College as a backdrop for homecoming, prom, and other photo opportunities, once this project is complete, students may opt to take photos on their own campus instead.
“Anytime you can take advantage of outdoor space and fresh air, it just makes sense,” Lysiak shared. “We’re excited to add these beautiful new spaces for students and teachers to appreciate and enjoy this year.” He noted that since Covid grants received by the District were used on HVAC and window improvements, those funds freed up money in the General Fund for this project, which was completed at no additional cost to taxpayers.
