Erin Duros and Danielle Thompson, kindergarten teachers at Fall Creek Elementary, work toward empowering our youngest learners.  They recently received both a grant and grant-writing support from the Foundation  to expand their efforts in creating an outdoor classroom influenced by Reggio Emilia.

The Reggio Emilia approach believes the environment plays a vital role in the development of the child. Both Duros and Thompson agree that the outdoor classroom will allow for meaningful learning opportunities for students through:

• Classroom Engagement
• Healthy Living
• Problem Solving and Exploration of Cause and Effect
• Student-led Inquiry
• Multi-Sensory Stimulation
• Social Play and well as Family and Community Connections

The expanded outdoor area will add a walking stand, exercise stand, tire stand, and tree stump walk to our outdoor environment.  But most importantly, will continue to foster a natural curiosity and love of learning in our youngest students.

Transforming classrooms into places that places that stimulate and empower them in age appropriate ways is just one of the ways the Foundation is making a difference for students and schools!

Learn more about our Reggio influenced classrooms!  The Foundation will be on hand at Kindergarten Round Up to meet the class of 2029!