The FWSU Story: Raising the Roof: Fletcher Elementary’s Outdoor Classroom Takes Shape

Following nearly a year and a half of planning and preparation, Fletcher Elementary’s new outdoor classroom became a reality last week. As students and staff looked on, a large crane hoisted the structure’s 5,200 pound roofing structure into place, sealing the deal on phase two of the project.

The effort is being coordinated by parent volunteer Tucker Riggs, whose LSF Forest products, along with Bellwether Craftsmen and Barrett’s Tree Service, donated substantial time and services in an effort to bring the idea to fruition.

“It was really cool to watch the crane fly the roof on,” Kindergartener Lucas MacMilan said. “I’ve never seen a classroom be built before, especially right on the playground.”

Riggs has helped to create these types of structures before, and brought the idea to the school’s Playground Committee. Thanks to community and business support, the project is being completed at a fraction of the traditional cost.

“The outdoor classroom will have so many uses,” Instructional Coach Denette Locke said. “It will allow students to continue their studies but still be outside. It will provide shelter and a learning space for science exploration such as our Four Winds Nature Program.”

The third and final phase of the project will take place later in the spring, when volunteers install the roof and shingles.

   Christopher Dodge is the Principal of Fletcher Elementary School and is a regular contributor to THE FWSU STORY. You can follow him on Twitter @FletcherFalcon