BEVERLY — Superintendent Suzanne Charochak and Principal Gabrielle Montevecchi are sharing news that the Hannah Elementary School celebrated the opening of its new Outdoor Classroom in December.
Hannah Elementary School has started to look beyond its classroom walls as part of a nationwide outdoor learning initiative that was sparked due to the COVID-19 pandemic. For the past several years, Hannah students have been using make-shift outdoor classrooms almost daily.
The Hannah Elementary PTO embraced the ongoing commitment to outdoor learning and decided to give Hannah students access to a permanent outdoor learning space that would engage their curiosity and inspire their minds. To bring this vision to life, the PTO launched the Hannah Elementary Outdoor Classroom Project.
According to the North American Association for Environmental Education, outdoor learning complements indoor learning by improving student performance, increasing student participation and enjoyment in science learning activities, as well as improving mental health.
Through the PTO’s fundraising efforts, grants and donations, $50,000 was raised to build the outdoor learning classroom. Construction began in July 2023 and was completed in November.
The outdoor classroom is a simple structure held up by posts and beams, is open on all four sides, and has a finished roof. It also includes moveable boards on which students can complete their work.
On Dec. 8, Hannah Elementary hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the official opening of the classroom. While students do not go outside if it’s below 20 degrees, the students are excited to use the classroom in all types of weather.
“This new structure will be able to be used in all seasons; shielding the sun in the heat and protecting students from rain and snow. Students can take part in lessons using a variety of materials,” said Principal Montevecchi. “A big thank you to the Hannah PTO, who continues to support our goal to enhance and expand our vision for outdoor learning at Hannah. Our PTO President Amanda Lennon was instrumental in the initial design of the structure and also spearheaded the fundraising amongst parents and local businesses. We look forward to enjoying this multi-use space for many years to come!”
“The creation of Hannah Elementary’s new outdoor classroom is a wonderful example of how our community comes together to support and enhance the learning of Beverly students,” said Superintendent Charochak. “It’s amazing to see all of the ways Hannah students can use this new space to explore their surroundings.”
