Let's Make a Big Impact for Our Kids and Community
South School is revitalizing 44 acres into an Outdoor Learning Center, a innovative Recreational Playground, and an extensive Trail System.
South School Outdoor Learning Center Project
South School owns 44 acres; let’s transform it into a hub for learning and play
Goal: Develop the land into a dynamic space for recreational play and hands-on learning.
Ultimate Vision: Integrate the trails into a comprehensive Outdoor Learning Center, featuring: Outdoor classroom, Greenhouse, Gardens, Butterfly sanctuary, etc.
an Accessible Nature Learning Space
The Outdoor Classroom
A key feature of the Outdoor Learning Center will be the Outdoor Classroom—a dedicated space where students and teachers can gather for lessons, discussion, and exploration in nature.
The Outdoor Classroom will be an accessible open-air pavilion, designed for inclusive learning, the space will accommodate students of all abilities, including those using wheelchairs or other mobility devices.
Building Community Partnerships
There are many ways to get involved:
Planning & Construction Support: Builders and partners to assist with design, construction, and long-term stewardship
Construction Materials: Trail surfacing (gravel, wood chips) and edging materials (timber, stone)
Trail Features: Benches, rest areas, and educational/interpretive signage
Maintenance Supplies: Tools for upkeep and erosion control
Planting & Landscaping: Native plants and trees
Volunteers: Skilled and general volunteers for construction and maintenance
Monetary Donations: Funding for construction, maintenance, and contingencies
Trail Sponsorships: Sponsorship opportunities to support the project
Starting with Access
Priority #1: Get the students outside!
Time to run, bike, play, jump, and explore the great outdoors—embrace every opportunity for movement and adventure.
Starting with the trails is essential; they offer immediate outdoor access and stimulate student exploration.
This foundational step enhances engagement and fosters a love for nature right from the beginning.
Over the past year, we worked with:
South School Parents: Consulted parents for their insights & concerns.
South School Community Members: Engaged local community members to build support & gather input.
Neighbors: Contacted nearby residents for their feedback and concerns.
Trail Experts: Consulted with trail professionals for design & implementation advice.
Project Progress
Over the past year, we worked with:
South School Administration: Engaged with school leaders for feedback & support.
South School Educators: Collaborated with teachers to align with educational goals & curriculum.
South School Students: Involved students in discussions & feedback sessions.
RSU 13 Facilities Committee: Engaged with the committee to ensure alignment with facilities planning.
The Easy Access Loop promises fun for EVERYONE!
The Wilderness Hideaway are where imaginations can run wild!
The Recreational Trail invites endless exploration and adventure!
Thank you to our Partners
Our community partners are rising to the challenge!
Thank you to Midcoast Trails Stewardship!
We are incredibly grateful to Midcoast Trails Stewardship, whose expertise, dedication, and vision have been instrumental in designing our trail system.
They have been an invaluable partner every step of the way, helping bring our trails to life and creating a lasting impact on our community and natural spaces
Thank You to JBI!
We extend our thanks to Jake Barbour Inc. for generously bush hogging and clearing our trail network.
Their support helped make the trails more accessible and ready for the community to enjoy.
Thank you to LaBranche Land Surveys
LaBranche Land Surveys generously provided our preliminary site sketch.
