What do I need to know?

An outdoor classroom that enriches the educational experience of our students and is a sought after learning environment by our teachers. 

Our new outdoor classroom will allow students and the entire EES community a way to enjoy the benefits of being outside while also providing a space that is more welcoming and conducive to teaching and learning.

Bringing students to an outside learning area has the ability to foster more creative and collaborative thinking while appreciating nature and its importance. Also, by having an outdoor classroom space available we’ll have an opportunity to further connect with students who struggle in the traditional learning environment. 

Offering a dynamic learning environment can only help students become more engaged in their learning. 

Fundraising has started (January 2022).

The entire outdoor classroom project has a projected completion date of Summer 2023. 

It is being done entirely by the EES PTO (Essex Elementary School‘s Parent Teacher Organization). 

The PTO kicked off the project by funding the first $10,000. 

Community members, individuals and businesses, can help by donating and/or joining the fundraising committee. 

There are different tiers of donations. Contact the fundraising committee for details and to learn how you can help.

The project will cost an estimated $150,000 from start to finish. 

We’d love you to help by donating and/or joining the fundraising committee. 

We work to enrich the learning experience and wellbeing of all students within the EES community. We support students and teachers by raising money to fund additional items for classroom teachers, Specials teachers (music, art, library, physical education and Spanish) and student programs that are not included in the school budget. 

We began operating in the 1980s and became a 501c3 in 1993. Over the course of our tenure, we’ve funded numerous programs including field trips, cultural arts events and additional programs and events that enrich students’ academic experience. 

In 2008, we undertook the large project of raising funds for the school’s playscape at a cost of over $100,000. This project was, and continues to be, a great success.