La Escuela Fratney is one of five schools raising funds to support its conceptual schoolyard redevelopment plan in 2020

Fundraising is underway in 2020 to support the realization of La Escuela Fratney’s conceptual schoolyard redevelopment plan.

La Escuela Fratney’s conceptual plan calls for removal of approximately 14,920 square feet of asphalt and replacing it with new green space and mixed-use recreation and educational areas. The design includes a new outdoor classroom and an expanded sensory garden that provides habitat for a variety of pollinator species. The inclusion of a variety of native plantings allow for unique spaces on the schoolyard that can represent natural Wisconsin ecosystems, complete with student-created signage. The vision also includes a potential future rainwater harvesting system to further manage stormwater by diverting rainwater into an underground cistern. The plan manages approximately 30,573 gallons of stormwater per rain event.

The schoolyard redevelopment includes a new outdoor classroom space complete with performance area, seating, and materials to support outdoor learning. Nearby green infrastructure including stormwater trees, bioswales, native grasses, and pollinator gardens also serve as unique learning spaces. Educational and artistic signage throughout the schoolyard will support student-curated tours and encourage learning through self-guided exploration. Potential future development phases include rainwater harvesting systems to support garden activities and a rooftop greenhouse to further promote healthy food access for the school and community.