For years several teachers, students and administrators at Pinewood Christian Academy envisioned an outdoor classroom on campus. The outdoor classroom started slowly with a few benches and a podium; however, during the summer of 2006, the ball was rolling and a true outdoor classroom became a reality.
A rudimentary nature trail was created that meandered through a wetland carpeted with ferns and other wetlands plants. Trees and shrubs were identified and labeled. Gardens were planted, mini habitats were created and a simple stand of pine trees was transformed into an area dedicated to forestry education. Information boxes and painted signs were placed at various locations. Benches were added throughout the outdoor classroom as well as bird feeders and bird baths.
Several gardens and stations were created including: the Butterfly Garden, Hosta Garden, Medicinal Garden, Thomas Jefferson Garden, Prayer Garden, Hummingbird Garden, International Garden, Perch and Plant Station, Decaying Log Habitat, Brush-pile Habitat, Animal Tracks Station, Spider Space Display, Earth Window, Turpentine Display and Station, Evergreen Forest, Monarch Crossing and Weather Station.
Because of the various habitats, both natural and created, and the fact that the sight provides the four elements animals need to survive – food, water, cover and places to raise young, the Pinewood Outdoor Classroom was certified as a Schoolyard Habitats® site by the National Wildlife Federation.
The PCA Outdoor Classroom would not have been possible without the dedication, hard work and support of teachers, administrators, parents, grandparents, students, and local businesses and groups.
Members of the student council planted the tulip bulbs in the Outdoor Classroom during November of 2007. These bulbs were donated as a special thanks to the student body for their overwhelming support during drug awareness week. A special thanks to Mrs. Susan Winters and Mrs. Debbie Floyd for helping plant the flowers. Tulip planting pics
