Let's Make a Big Impact for Our Kids and Community

South School is revitalizing 44 acres into an Outdoor Learning Center, a innovative Recreational Playground, and an extensive Trail System.

South School Outdoor Learning Center Project

South School owns 44 acres; let’s transform it into a hub for learning and play

Goal: Develop the land into a dynamic space for recreational play and hands-on learning.

Ultimate Vision: Integrate the trails into a comprehensive Outdoor Learning Center, featuring: Outdoor classroom, Greenhouse, Gardens, Butterfly sanctuary, etc.

Project Progress

Over the past year, we worked with:

  • South School Administration: Engaged with school leaders for feedback & support.

  • South School Educators: Collaborated with teachers to align with educational goals & curriculum.

  • South School Students: Involved students in discussions & feedback sessions.

  • RSU 13 Facilities Committee: Engaged with the committee to ensure alignment with facilities planning.

Over the past year, we worked with:

  • South School Parents: Consulted parents for their insights & concerns.

  • South School Community Members: Engaged local community members to build support & gather input.

  • Neighbors: Contacted nearby residents for their feedback and concerns.

  • Trail Experts: Consulted with trail professionals for design & implementation advice.

Starting with Access

Priority #1: Get the students outside!

Time to run, bike, play, jump, and explore the great outdoors—embrace every opportunity for movement and adventure.

Starting with the trails is essential; they offer immediate outdoor access and stimulate student exploration.

This foundational step enhances engagement and fosters a love for nature right from the beginning.

Building Community Partnerships

  • IMMEDIATE NEED: Stumps and wood chips: We would like to get the kids outside ASAP in the Wilderness Hideaways

  • Construction Materials:Trail surfacing materials (e.g., gravel, wood chips) & edging materials (e.g., timber, stone)

  • Trail Features: Benches, rest areas & educational and interpretive signage

  • Maintenance Supplies:Tools for trail upkeep (e.g., pruning shears, weed whackers) & erosion control supplies

  • Planting and Landscaping: Native plants and trees for landscaping

  • Volunteers: Skilled and general volunteers for trail construction and maintenance

  • Monetary Donations: Funds to cover construction, maintenance, and unexpected expenses

  • Trail Sponsorships: Sponsorship opportunities

The Easy Access Loop promises fun for EVERYONE!

The Wilderness Hideaway are where imaginations can run wild!

The Recreational Trail invites endless exploration and adventure!

Thank you to our Partners

Our community partners are rising to the challenge!

Thank you to Midcoast Trails Stewardship for developing our trail system.

Thank you to LaBranche Land Surveys for our Preliminary Site Sketch!