A Place for the Community

A grassy space on school property had long been empty, and bits of garbage blown from the nearby street and untended plants made the space unusable and unsightly.  Sixth-through 8th-grade students decided that, with some work, they could transform the space into an area students and community members alike would enjoy.

They created a unique outdoor space that was part classroom, art center, playground, and neighborhood gathering place.  Through such elective classes as horticulture, art, construction, and fund-raising, cooperative groups of students raised money to support their plans; sewed gardens with plants appropriate to the climate; and built and decorated tables and benches, an amphitheater and performance stage, and an information kiosk.

Each group had to be aware throughout the process of its budget, blueprints, and the history and needs of their neighborhood and community spaces.  Students documented every step of their work through photos, videos, and journal entries.

From the very beginning of the project, the community was interested in showing its support.  Neighbors supplied tools, food, and time, and students welcomed them into the process.  Both groups received in return not only a new gathering space but also new friends and greater pride in their community.

Adapted from "Route to Reform: K-8 service-learning Curriculum Ideas," © 1994-95 National Youth Leadership Council.