A classroom project at Evans has the potential to create an additional learning space for students.
Four eighth grade girls in the Project Lead The Way course, Green Architecture, took a concept and created plans to develop an enclosed courtyard. Lilly Mitchell, Sarah Hunger, Olivia Coram, and Ashlynn Sheets were offered the opportunity to take the skills learned in the semester course and apply it to a real project. They jumped at the chance.
Many students aren't aware the space exist. It's located outside the media center, surrounded by classrooms. For years, there have been conversations about converting the space into something usable but with only one exit, students can't use it.
The group had two requirements, create an outdoor classroom and design a second egress for the space. They met with Principal Steve Zimmerman, researched ideas, and took measurements of the space. They then created a sketch that was converted into a 1/4 scale sketch. Their concept includes an outdoor classroom, reading nooks, a dry creek, murals, tables for alternative lunch space, and an additional door into the library. Their goal is to serve approximately 50 students at a time in the area.
"We all do different things but come together," said Coram. Three of the four are used to working together. They spend most of their classes together, according to Coram. "We all have different strengths and work together really well."
"The students showed they possessed the skills needed for this project," said Joe Vandenburg, PLTW instructor. "They showed the ability to do all the components necessary and were ready to be pushed. It's a great opportunity."
The three consider the project a legacy. "It's what we will leave behind when we leave," they said.
"We are trying to build something for people to enjoy," said Mitchell.
Their favorite part, "seeing it all come together" they said.
Concept of the outdoor classroom.
Sketch of the courtyard transformation.