The Outdoor Classroom is located in Antheil’s courtyard and
is a botanical refuge for both animals and students. Over the years the space has evolved and
changed. Early on it was simply a stone
path with a shaded seating area for classes to meet. Numerous parent groups, students, teachers,
and scouting groups have worked hard to plan and develop this area into a
welcoming , inviting, educational space.
Fundraisers, grants, and volunteers have enable us to create a unique
area for students to learn. You can now
travel along a brick walkway passing through several different garden
areas. At one end by the library there
is a Reading Garden (dedicated to our late kindergarten teacher Fran Smith)
featuring butterfly friendly wildflowers and benches for class lessons. On the side is a composting area with three
different ways to demonstrate and experiment with composting. In the middle is the shaded seating area for
students and shed for garden supplies.
At the other end by our cafeteria you will find a perennial garden,
spring bulb garden, herb garden, and a strawberry patch. There are also birdhouses, a bird feeding
area, and a goldfish pond. Many classes
visit the courtyard during the school year for hands-on experiences in science
and math, writing inspiration, presentations of plays, class celebrations, and
school events.
During the school year 5th graders in The Antheil
Garden Club contribute to the maintenance of this area. Over the summer Antheil families are invited
to help with watering and weeding.
When at Antheil, make sure
to visit The Outdoor Classroom located in the courtyard.