CVA tech classes and Fisher unveil outdoor classroom

It started with a simple question last spring. Fisher PreK teacher Devon Rappa approached Principal Dan Murphy and asked if they could find a way to install an outdoor STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) and Discovery classroom in the Fisher courtyard. It would not be another playground. Instead, it would be a series of interactive, hands-on stations where students could imagine and experiment.

They kicked around ideas—what it would look like and how to pay for it. Ms. Rappa scoured the internet for different designs, finding pieces on the YouTube videos. Superintendent Jeremy Rich learned of the plans and suggested they touch base with CVA tech teacher Jon Cole. Perhaps Mr. Cole's students could turn the idea into a reality.

By the end of school, Mr. Cole was on board. In September, Mr. Cole and his students began converting photos and videos into real plans. Mr. Cole used money from several generous donors to purchase supplies and his tech classes went to work. On Monday, Nov. 24 students, teacher and classroom aide Bobby Paul delivered the finished stations to the Fisher courtyard.

"This was an incredible outpouring of creativity and generosity," said Principal Murphy.

"Ms. Rappa's idea grew to involve such a large group of talented and caring people. So many jumped on board, eager to provide a different learning opportunity for our children. We plan to keep the patio clear of snow, so our teachers can reserve blocks of time for instruction and exploration. And although it began as a PreK idea, we know our kindergarten and first grade teachers will put it to good use."

"We especially want everyone to know that none of this would have been possible without the kindness of four major donors who shared our vision. We want to thank Joan Matteson, Perch Place Consulting, Kevin and Jo-Anne Murphy, and the First Presbyterian Church of Ilion."