Green Schoolyard Design Features

A green schoolyard is a nature-filled, multi-functional school ground designed for and by students, teachers, parents and community members that offer spaces to play, learn, explore and grow. During out-of-school time, green schoolyards are open for community use, increasing access to nearby parks and improving the health and wellbeing of surrounding communities. A myriad of fixed and moveable landscape components can be woven into green schoolyards. School districts turn their school grounds into living ecosystems, filled with trees and vegetation that host insects and birds; give children “loose parts” for play; and transform stormwater into engaging features for rigorous activity and learning. We invite you to use the examples in this gallery for inspiration and design that meet your community’s unique needs.