What’s the best kept secret on “The Hill”?  If you think I’m going to say Italian food then think again.  Situated within walking distance of a multitude of tasty restaurants is Sacred Heart Villa—a preschool where amazing things happen both inside and out!  

LREC is fortunate to partner with four teachers at Sacred Heart Villa—Stacey Hulsey, Ellen Cibulka, Peggy Knock and Sister Bridget Smith—representing students from their Tiny Tots classroom up to their Kindergarten class. As I was watching their slideshow I couldn’t help but think of how much these teachers benefit from being part of a strong outdoor learning team and how the students benefit as well. Their director, Kris Doder, is also an integral part of the team, providing ongoing support and encouraging professional development opportunities for her teachers. It was fun to peek around the preK room and notice all the materials from the outdoors that the students bring back inside with them to use in their projects and to further their learning. As we headed outside to their schoolyard spaces the wind picked up and a few raindrops began to fall. We managed to try a few spring scavenger hunts (click here for several good guide sheets) that can be easily done in any schoolyard space.

What is your team doing to create magical outdoor places?

To learn more about Sacred Heart Villa, click here.