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Outdoors offers a value experience [UPDATED]
Published 8:54am Thursday, September 20, 2012 Updated 11:54am Thursday, September 20, 2012On Wednesday, Sept. 12, the US Fish and Wildlife Department trained the Prairie Science classes on how to band ducks.
As I watched the process, I was very impressed with the USFW staff’s patience and information. I was equally impressed with the engagement of our students. They listened and asked good questions.
The students learned how to determine the species, gender and age, take measurements, how to install the band and finally release the ducks.
Many parents were also in attendance and helped in the process.
This was one of the many great curriculum days at the PWLC and is a reminder on how wonderful it is to see our students and staff enjoying the outdoor learning experience.
Upcoming bond
referendum
During the months of September and October, my columns will provide readers with information about the District’s upcoming Outdoor Facility Bond Referendum. This week I’ll address the proposed projects at each site.
The bond referendum will be held in conjunction with the Nov. 6 general election. The District has scheduled a public information forum at 7 p.m. Monday, Sept. 24, in the Kennedy Secondary School Auditorium.
Cleveland Elementary
The large green space at Cleveland Elementary would be reconfigured for two soccer fields. A large, regulation size, varsity field would be located on the west side of the area to utilize the sliding hill for spectators to watch the game.
A smaller field to the east, where the ice rink is located, would be used for practice and younger players.
The fields would be sprinkled and the varsity field would have a net installed to the south to prevent soccer balls from going into the street.
The lighted outdoor ice arena would be moved to the Roosevelt site.
The existing block building, used as a warming house, would continue to be used for its restrooms, concessions and storage. During the school day, Cleveland Elementary students would continue to utilize the area for physical education classes and recess.
Roosevelt
Education Center
The current baseball field and green space would be improved with the addition of a fence surrounding the site, along with a grass infield for baseball. The fence would serve as a deterrent for geese.
This site would be used for ninth-grade baseball, youth football and the ALC physical education classes.
The lighted outdoor ice arena, presently located at Cleveland, would be relocated south of the Fergus Falls Community Arena.
KSS
After multiple layout configurations were explored by members of the task force, it was agreed that continuous green space (having all practice fields adjacent to each other without fences) would make the best use of the area. The plan would include proper drainage, along with a sprinkler system.
The task force also reviewed the safety aspect, as softball, track, football, soccer, tennis, and ninth-grade baseball would all be within walking distance for the athletes.
The placement of a new football/track and field complex in the southeast corner of the Kennedy site was recommended.
This area would also support the expansion to an eight-lane track, which could host large, multi-school events such as conference and section meets.
The existing tennis courts would become a new parking area. Location of new tennis courts would be adjacent to the existing ones. The location of two softball fields would be where the old baseball field was located and would be equipped with a portable outfield fence. The portable fence allows flexibility with the space to be used as an additional soccer field in the fall.
A separate building for the concessions stand and restrooms would be located adjacent to the football/track complex and tennis courts.
A key component of the site is the development of the environmental learning site in collaboration with the Prairie Wetlands Learning Area and the relocation of the Otter Garden.
