Welcome to the
 DPS Bond Program

Learning Landscapes

     *SEE PHOTOS OF 2010 PROJECTS IN PROGRESS 

 

Welcome to a new way of play.

Welcome to a new way to learn.

Welcome to a new place for kids and community members to explore.

Welcome to Learning Landscapes

 

playground1.jpg: playground2.jpg:

In meeting the needs of our 21st Century student and our growing student population, we are making improvements both in-and-outside the classroom. On the exterior of our buildings, nowhere is change more evident than with the construction of Learning Landscapes.

These 21st Century super playgrounds have upped the ante on how recess time is defined in a schoolyard, and Denver’s young community loves them! A portion of the 2008 bond funds the capital costs for Learning Landscapes at 34 schoolyards, creating the nation’s first district-wide schoolyard renovation program. In addition, 19 schools are targeted for Learning Landscape improvements.

Since its inception, the main objective of the Learning Landscape program was to strengthen community stewardship with its neighborhood school, by designing and building multi-dimensional schoolyards that integrate public park features like social gathering spaces and artistic elements. The overall goals of the program were to create fun and participatory play areas, in order to:

  • Encourage outdoor learning
  • Improve student socialization skills
  • Improve play opportunities for children of all ages
  • “Green” the grounds
  • Encourage community stewardship of their local schools

Community Volunteer Day

Because we understand the importance of community involvement with our schools, each newly developed Learning Landscape will have a “Community Volunteer Day.” These events will unite both community and school in purpose.

Volunteers have an opportunity to lay sod, plant trees or shrubs, assist with student/community art work, and potentially aid with an old fashion barn-raising - for play equipment. Once completed, the Learning Landscape becomes the neighborhoods park, where kids play after hours, community members gather, birthdays are celebrated, vegetables are grown and learning occurs.

What makes a Learning Landscape playground so special?

  • Three age appropriate play areas (ECE, Primary and Intermediate), plus swings
  • Irrigated multipurpose field w/ crusher fines track
  • Asphalt improvements
  • Shade structure
  • Outdoor classroom/stage
  • Gateway announcing schools name
  • Shade trees
  • Gardens
  • Non-traditional (educational opportunities with xeriscape,
  • Art elements (kids art on banners and tiles)

2010 Program

 In year 2010, new Learning Landscapes will be constructed at the following elementary schools:  Ashley, Barnum, Beach Court, Doull, Force, Ford, Harrington, Marrama, McGlone, Montclair, Dora Moore, Pioneer Charter, Steck, and Teller.   

 “If we build it, they will play!”

*See Photos of Learning Landscape Groundbreaking Ceremonies

 *Read about the dedication of the Amesse Learning Landscape

The Learning Landscapes program is a partnership with Denver Public Schools and the University of Colorado Denver. For more information and to see Master Plans for completed and planned projects, please visit the UCD website: http://www.learninglandscapes.org

playground3.jpg: playground4.jpg:

 

 

BOND PROGRAM

MAJOR PROJECTS

 

CS Logo:

Ashley Sign:

Bond Program Objectives

To maximize the value to the District each year, and for the overall Program, within the funds available, through:

  • Timing of Projects
  • Delivery Methods
  • Minimizing Overhead Costs

To develop (recruit, train, mentor) the DPS Program staff to deliver both the 2008 Bond, and the next Bond Program.

To involve DPS students in the Design and Construction process, to encourage the next generation of engineers, architects, scientists, and skilled craft workers.