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Project Overview
"The secret of all nature is to be found in the soul of a child."
—Maria Montessori
The Outdoor Environment Project, a natural extension of the classroom to the outdoors, began two years ago as a staff-directed effort. Dedicated staff members observed our children at play, interviewed the children, considered a multitude of possibilities, and created a conceptual plan of their vision. This was the plan shared with the Oak Hill Community at the Spring Auction. Since the Auction, efforts have been directed toward establishing a final Master Plan. An update on this progress was shared at the Annual Parent Meeting.
OEPI Committee
At its June 2005 meeting, the OHM Board of Directors approved the formation of the Outdoor Environment Plan Implementation (OEPI) Committee. The primary responsibility of the OEPI Committee is to realize the vision of the OHM Staff Committee within the considerations and constraints of the project.
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Jennifer Martini, Co-Chair |
Katie Toghramadjian, Co-Chair |
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Kathy Anderson, Head of School |
Erika Schmidt, After-Care Representative |
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Debbi Betts, Casa Representative |
Dave Clark, Elementary Representative |
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Rolf Dahl, Financial Oversight |
Amy Jones, Volunteer Coordinator |
If you are interested in joining the OEPI Committee, please click here.
Project Considerations & Constraints
Careful planning and patience are the most important factors in the eventual success of the Outdoor Environment Project.
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SPACE The plan layout takes into consideration an easement which cuts diagonally across the playground, property boundaries and setbacks, areas dedicated for future expansion and the commitment to minimize the impact on healthy existing trees. Elements will be located so as not to interfere with the easement or future expansion. The open playfield and basketball court area will also remain. The OEPI Committee has worked with the City of Shoreview to eliminate the impact of setbacks on the project. The City of Shoreview arborist has visited OHM to assess the health of our trees and make recommendations toward ensuring their longevity. |
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BUDGET This project is being funded through donations made by the Oak Hill Community. To date, $48.000 has been pledged toward the $125,000 goal. This is enough to allow implementation of two of the major components of the design and several of the smaller components. Remaining Phase 1 elements will be executed as additional donations are received. Gifts made toward the Outdoor Environment Project will be used only for this purpose. |
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VOLUNTEER EFFORTS & ITEM DONATIONS In addition to financial support, volunteers are being sought to lend their time and abilities and/or donate items to be used in the various project elements. This will reduce the labor and implementation costs of the project. THANK YOU to those who have already committed to participate; if you haven't signed up yet you are still welcome and encouraged to help out! |
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TIME We are all anxious for the complete realization of the Outdoor Environment Project. However, time and care are being taken to ensure that each aspect of this project has optimal results. The first requirement is that all elements are safe, accessible and welcoming to the children. The second is that elements are constructed with consideration for long-term durability and appeal. The OEPI Committee will only move forward with the construction of an element when the developed design meets these criteria. Please check the Project Update page for more information. |
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Your feedback is always welcome. Please click here to share your comments, concerns, questions or suggestions on any aspect of the Outdoor Learn & Play Environment Project.
Oak Hill Montessori is an independent non-profit school accredited by the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI).