Batesville council grants $10K request for Primary School outdoor learning complex
August 23, 2023 at 12:55 a.m.
Batesville City Council has granted approval for a $10,000 funding request from the Batesville Community Education Foundation (BCEF) to establish an Outdoor Learning Complex on the western side of Batesville Primary School. The decision aims to address the space constraints currently faced by the school. According to Anne Wilson, executive director of BCEF, the project's objectives extend beyond resolving the space issue. Wilson told the council of research that shows the positive impact of outdoor learning on student outcomes. She highlighted that students who engage in outdoor education exhibit improved focus, enhanced mental health, and achieve better academic results due to the benefits derived from outdoor experiences.
In addition to the Belterra Fund grant, BCEF plans to secure additional funding for the project through various sources, such as grants and their annual campaign, scheduled for this month. The Batesville Community School Corporation will also contribute by assisting with accessibility costs. Wilson emphasized that the Kids Discovery Factory and the Batesville Area Arts Council are supportive of the initiative. These organizations intend to utilize the Outdoor Learning Complex for hosting events and programs, including outdoor movie nights. Wilson believes that this Outdoor Learning Complex would be the first of its kind among public schools in Southeastern Indiana.
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Batesville City Council has granted approval for a $10,000 funding request from the Batesville Community Education Foundation (BCEF) to establish an Outdoor Learning Complex on the western side of Batesville Primary School. The decision aims to address the space constraints currently faced by the school. According to Anne Wilson, executive director of BCEF, the project's objectives extend beyond resolving the space issue. Wilson told the council of research that shows the positive impact of outdoor learning on student outcomes. She highlighted that students who engage in outdoor education exhibit improved focus, enhanced mental health, and achieve better academic results due to the benefits derived from outdoor experiences.
In addition to the Belterra Fund grant, BCEF plans to secure additional funding for the project through various sources, such as grants and their annual campaign, scheduled for this month. The Batesville Community School Corporation will also contribute by assisting with accessibility costs. Wilson emphasized that the Kids Discovery Factory and the Batesville Area Arts Council are supportive of the initiative. These organizations intend to utilize the Outdoor Learning Complex for hosting events and programs, including outdoor movie nights. Wilson believes that this Outdoor Learning Complex would be the first of its kind among public schools in Southeastern Indiana.