Naturalization Area
Our Schoolyard Changes
Tuscany School and its Parent Council are working together to create a
naturalized schoolyard that will not only reflect the learning and
behavioral goals of our school but also reflect the rich cultural
history of our community. This is an extensive project that will be
phased over a period of two to three years and will benefit the school
and greater Tuscany community.
Schoolyard naturalization is the process in which native plants are
used to return the schoolyard back to a more natural state. Only native
plants are used, therefore reducing the amount of water, pruning and
maintenance of the schoolyard. At the same time, structures and areas
can be created using natural materials to create outdoor classrooms and
learning areas, as well as creative play spaces. Additionally, research
has repeatedly shown that there are tremendous educational, ecological
and social benefits to be seen when a school chooses to naturalize.
There are four (4) stages to naturalizing a schoolyard:
Vision - Share the concept, form committee, develop vision and links, obtain approval
Design - Survey schoolyard, create preliminary designs, select the site, create final design
Implementation - Project needs, gather donations, prepare for installations, install the site
Completion - Celebrate the project, evaluate, monitor and utilize the project, nurture the project
The project is currently at the beginning of the Implementation stage
as project needs are being assessed and fundraising options are being
investigated.
Would You Like to Play an Important Part?
A Naturalization Committee has been formed and still needs members to
help carry out a project of this magnitude. People are needed for lead
roles and support roles in the committee, support roles and will be
needed for the actual building of the schoolyard. If you are interested
in voicing your ideas or if you’d like to volunteer to be a part of this
project, please email Naturalization@shaw.ca.
