The Nature Explore Classroom at The Friendship School

The Friendship School Certified Nature Explore Classroom continues to be a joy for all.

The classroom is maintained on a daily basis with equipment, fencing, gates and other items replaced or repaired as needed. Elements continue to be chosen for their durability and low maintenance as part of the yearly maintenance schedule.

Numerous annual and perennial plantings are pruned, reseeded and replanted each year. Some of the plants and small trees in the upper and lower outdoor classrooms needed to be rearranged. Wood mulch is replenished in the space and the sand box is refilled with screened, clean sand each year. There are also items such as pine cones, seed pods, and straw bales added to the areas as needed.

Differing areas of activities: digging, climbing, art, music, building, water, the reading area in the gazebo, messy and planting areas, all promote different kinds of outdoor activities. There are bird feeders, wooden archways, and themed play items that add to the beauty of the outdoor space. All teachers and students have access to the use of the outdoor classroom and bring fun, interesting and educational projects to connect with nature on a daily basis.