Outdoor Learning Center
Our Elementary OLC began in 1996 with a vision and design constructed by a group of interested citizens. Many people, students and community groups have been involved in making it an interesting, beautiful and educational learning area.
All of the trees in the arboretum area have been gifts and were selected to provide a wide variety for identification. The Iowa native grasses help students to visualize what a tall grass prairie would have been like when our state was first settled.
Our butterfly garden has many perennials that attract butterflies and birds. Again plants have been given by community members and volunteers do the weeding and fertilizing. Sculptures of children were also added to this part of the learning center.
The composite boxes allow each grade to plant flowers or vegetables and during the ten years many things have been grown in these areas. The students have also made stepping stones for paths in both gardens.
A large shelter house with the picnic talbes allows both school and community to enjoy a sheltered area. Several benches are also found nearby.
Volunteers are also needed to help with the upkeep. Some have been helping since the beginning of the area, however we would welcome anyone interested in serving the school and community in this way. Many hands make the work fun!