A new outdoor learning space at John G. Dinkelmeyer Elementary School in the North Bellmore School District has become a hit with both students and teachers. Installed just as the warm weather arrived, the covered space is already a popular spot as an alternative classroom setting.
The creation of the outdoor learning space was funded by the PTA. Principal Danica Brugge said that once blacktop repaving was completed last summer, they could move forward with this project. The canopy and four tables with benches were installed in late April, giving students a nice surprise when they returned from spring break. All of the equipment is blue and yellow, which are Dinkelmeyer’s school colors.
Ms. Brugge said that when school reopened during the pandemic, outdoor learning was prioritized on nice days and everyone quickly realized the benefits. Even though the pandemic is over and school has long returned to normal, more outdoor learning was a change worth keeping.
“So much of what we do in the school day can be brought outside,” Ms. Brugge said. “We now have a dedicated outdoor classroom and we are extremely grateful to the PTA for making this a reality.”
Fourth grade teacher Nick Assande often brings his class to the space, where they take part in literary discussions while also enjoying their snacks. Movement is necessary for children, he added, and moving to the outdoor space and back to the classroom is beneficial for them.
His students give the outdoor space high marks, including Kristen Guaiana and Christopher Mazzie. Kristen likes the space to read during recess, and Christopher said it is cool to learn outside in nature.
First grade teacher Kelly Navin has frequently brought her class outside for literacy lessons, but now having benches to sit at and tables to lean on enhances the experience for her students.
“There’s a place they can sit and write,” Ms. Navin said, noting that handwriting is an important skill that first graders practice. “I really love taking my class out for outdoor learning. This add to the beautiful campus we have here.”
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Date Added: 5/21/2024