Have you Seen the Courtyard Lately...??
It been a while since our last post, but that does not mean we have not been doing anything. And if you have not been to the PRS Outdoor Classroom lately, you are in for a surprise.
The Courtyard is a constantly evolving outdoor classroom with new educational elements being added or planned. Not only does the landscape evolve with plants growing throughout the seasons, we are adding more educational items for the students to learn from and enjoy.
Recent additions include the completion of the fully functional Rain Garden with Observation Deck surrounded with lush landscape planting that provide wildlife habitat, a Mineral Mine complete with a variety of select individually labeled minerals and stones, Northern Lights Reflection Station where strategically placed mirrors can be used to educate students on light and relfection, Two large triangular Shade Sails have been installed above the amphitheater, and a myriad of new landscape plants throughout the courtyard provide seasonal interest and a great environment for wildlife and insects...
Other projects currently under way and near completion are the Giant Chess and Checker Cabinet, the Garden Shed, an outdoor Audio System for the Amphitheater, and the Constellation Trellis.
The greatest reward from all this hard work has been to see the students (and faculty) using the courtyard in ways that we planned and some that we have not. It seems that the courtyard changes every couple of months and we encourage you to get involved (even on the smallest level). We welcome you to be a part of the Outdoor Classroom projects and programs.
As you know, it was a very tough summer. The heat and drought wreaked havoc on the new landscape plantings. If it was not for the dedicated group of volunteers who made sure the plants were properly watered and the courtyard weeded, the landscape would not look as impressive as it does. Thank you to all of you who helped out over summer break!!
Of course, a special THANK YOU to everyone and anyone who has helped out with the courtyard from the beginning. It has truly come a long way.
Here are some newer pictures from the past few weeks. Enjoy the view!
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