PROJECTS
THE OUTDOOR CLASSROOM
The COE Outdoor Classroom is an innovative opportunity to engage students on multiple levels and disciplines by providing a multi-use and multi-age approach to a natural learning environment. Research shows outdoor classrooms contribute to increased imaginations, critical thinking skills, cooperative student behaviors, and positive attention spans that develop from the interests of students.
The Outdoor Classroom has transformed COE grounds into a half-acre outdoor discovery space incorporating a children’s forest, prairie classroom, outdoor pavilion, sound garden, and a science education classroom. With an emphasis on STEAM education, the Outdoor Classroom provides a unique atmosphere for students and has become an extension of our students’ daily education.
The Foundation currently funds the Outdoor Classroom position, taught by Lindsay Wilson, that serves the entire student body.
Previous projects are showcased below:
MINI FARM
During the 2026-2027 school year, our Outdoor Classroom is getting an upgrade with a Mini Farm! In partnership with 2nd grade teacher, Mrs. Danley, the Mini Farm will help guide Outdoor Classroom curriculum and be a place where children can grow food, care for chickens, investigate plants, and experience STEM learning in their own COE backyard!
More to come soon!
GROUNDS BEAUTIFICATION
The COE Foundation serves the COE community by raising funds from school families, alumni and other area donors for capital improvements on the school grounds. In addition to ongoing grounds maintenance, the Foundation has secured funding in the past for improvements that include a front entry garden, playground trash cans, pavilion lighting, trees, seasonally planted pots, track resurfacing, Free Little Library, outdoor hydration station, bike rack, as well as wood and metal benches.
We are currently fundraising to continue a front grounds beautification project along Cincinnati Avenue for our historic neighborhood building. Working alongside our friends and neighbors with Tom's Outdoor Living, we have already completed the planting of two new trees in sidewalk squares as well as a large front bed of shrubs, native grasses, and flowering perennials.
