Donation drive underway for BPS outdoor learning complex

Organizers request donations by September 30

Courtesy: BCEF

(BATESVILLE, Ind.) -- The Batesville Community Education Foundation (BCEF) is hoping to raise funds to build an outdoor learning complex at the Batesville Primary School.

The $300K project will include three different outdoor learning venues that will encompass the grassy area between two wings of the school that serves approximately 550 students each year.

Organizers say this project follows the successful implementation of the STEAM Lab at Batesville Intermediate School last year.

"The enrollment at BPS continues to grow each year and there isn’t really space inside for a dedicated hands-on learning center like we were envisioning," said BCEF executive director Anne Wilson.

"BCEF board president Jama Linkel-Cleghorn had read about outdoor learning spaces, so she tossed that alternative out to the BCEF board. What started out as an idea to provide some outdoor seating blossomed into a major undertaking, but we are excited and committed to bringing this alternative educational area to our youngest learners," Wilson added.

While the oversight of the project is BCEF’s responsibility, officials at BCSC are supportive of the initiative and are willing to assist with some necessary features since students will be spending instructional time in that area. A wheel-chair accessible sidewalk will be added by the school corporation, as well as any water or electrical needs.

“This is a huge undertaking for our foundation,” Linkel-Cleghorn said, “but it’s one that we believe will be a multi-purpose community asset when it is complete. Students will use it during the day but we can see all sorts of educational-related activities happening there, too. From outdoor family movie nights to STEAM activities to visiting artists, we hope that we can provide an outdoor venue for educational and family-friendly activities for all.”

Donations to the BCEF Annual Campaign are requested by September 30.

Click here to learn more about the project or to donate.

A paper donation form is also available for download. Any questions can be directed to Wilson at awilson@batesville.k12.in.us.