CLINTONVILLE – An outdoor classroom that was built outside the Clintonville Elementary School and was paid for with donations will benefit elementary school students for years to come.
Clintonville Superintendent Troy Kuhn told the Clintonville Tribune-Gazette that there was a need for shade in the area.
“I think a lot of ash trees die, and oak trees die around here, so as we cut more trees down, we’ve been planting more trees, but it takes a while to get them to size,” Kuhn said. “They wanted a sizeable location that was outdoors which could double for shade for recess and an outdoor classroom.
After soliciting bids for the construction of the outdoor classroom, Kuhn said he offered to lead the effort to build the structure. The structure has a steel roof and ceiling within the structure. The ceiling was included so birds and bees could not build nests in the trusses.
“Because they’re saving all of the labor, now they can turn around and buy the furniture for there,” Kuhn said. “They’ll have more than enough money for that. We figured the total project would be right around $20,000, maybe a little bit more. It’s going to come in well under budget.”
Kuhn said the district’s Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) donated funds for the project. One sizeable donation was also received from a district resident.
Laurie Vollrath, a member of the PTO, said the organization spent three years fundraising for the outdoor classroom.
“We are incredibly grateful for the amazing support we received from our community, including both local groups and individuals,” Vollrath said. “Whether you purchased beef sticks, made a cash donation, or supported us in another way, please know how much we appreciate you. We couldn’t have done it without you.
The outdoor classroom was completed by the first day of school, so students immediately began using the structure.
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