BRINGING THE CLASSROOM OUTDOORS

Bretton Woods Elementary School recently held a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for its newly completed Outdoor Classroom. Principal George Gagliardi welcomed honored guests Superintendent of Schools Patricia Sullivan-Kriss, Assistant Superintendent for Personnel and Administration Joe Tasman, Assistant Superintendent for Business and Operations James Stucchio, Board of Education Vice President Rob Scarito, Board of Education Trustee Stacey Weisberg, Middle School Principal Maryann Fletcher, Bretton Woods staff, past and present students, parents, PTA members, and our honored guest Past PTA President Wendy Cavanaugh – who’s vision began the quest to build an Outdoor Classroom for Bretton Woods – to mark this special occasion.

“This is a joyous occasion, particularly for the many of you here who have been personally involved in conceptualizing, organizing and shaping the completion of this project,” remarked Principal Gagliardi. “This was a collaborative effort built through community resources and productive relationships with many community partners, as we look to promote the success of every student.” There are many benefits to an outdoor classroom. Research has shown that students are happier and learn better when they spend time outdoors. When environmental education is integrated into the curriculum, student achievement increases in core academic areas including science, math and reading. Research additionally indicates schools that teach the core subjects using the environment as an integrating context, increase student engagement and enthusiasm for learning; and result in greater student pride and ownership in accomplishments.

“Today, as we commemorate the addition of this inspiring and beautiful structure to Bretton Woods, we are honored to be celebrating among friends who shared our vision and who supported us on this journey to make this project come true,” stated Principal Gagliardi. “This project required leadership, foresight, careful planning and persistence.” In addition to the District staff involved, Mr. Gagliardi recognized Contractor Al Iaboni for his donation of the “Bretton Woods” stone at the center of the Outdoor Classroom’s foundation; Christopher Marchese and the entire Hauppauge Educational Foundation for their continued support; and the Bretton Woods PTA, whose fundraising efforts and countless hours of dedication to raise the funds to see this project to fruition. “This vision was shared, and this vision came to realization because of the leadership, commitment and determination of our former PTA President Wendy Cavanagh. We thank her for everything she did to bring us here today,” said Principal Gagliardi.