Project Results

Impact Summary

The Green Schoolyards initiative transformed multiple elementary school campuses into safer, cooler, and more engaging environments for students. Through student-led design and collaboration with community partners, these spaces now support outdoor learning, recreation, and long-term sustainability. The project continues to expand, with additional campuses currently under development.

Belleview Elementary School

Belleview Elementary was transformed from a space with limited shade and outdated infrastructure into a modern, student-centered environment. Improvements include new playground structures, shaded areas, landscaping, and outdoor learning spaces.

John J. Doyle Elementary School

Improvements at Doyle Elementary focused on increasing shade, accessibility, and usable outdoor space. The completed site now includes upgraded play areas, sustainable landscaping, and features that support both recreation and outdoor learning.

Olive St Elementary School

Construction has now been completed at Olive Elementary. The site includes enhancements focused on student-centered design, shade, and outdoor learning, further extending the impact of the Green Schoolyards initiative.

West Putnam Elementary School

Construction at West Putnam Elementary has been completed. The finished project reflects a continued focus on sustainability, shade, and student-centered design. These improvements create a better outdoor environment for students and the school community.

Santa Fe Elementary School

Construction is now underway at Santa Fe Elementary. As the final school in the project, its completion will cap off the work on the Green Schoolyard Project and mark the achievement of its overall goal.

Key Improvements

Across all campuses, key improvements included:

• Sustainable playground structures

• Drought-tolerant landscaping

• Outdoor classroom spaces

• Shaded seating and learning areas

• Hydration stations

• Walking trails and improved campus flow

• Increased tree coverage and green space

Real-World Impact

These improvements directly impact students by creating safer, cooler, and more engaging environments for both learning and play. Increased shade and green space help reduce heat exposure, while outdoor classrooms provide new opportunities for hands-on education.

The project also contributes to environmental sustainability by sequestering carbon. Based on i-Tree estimates, trees planted at Doyle Elementary alone are expected to store approximately 127 metric tons of CO₂. Across all project sites, total carbon storage is projected to increase significantly as more campuses are completed. 

This project demonstrates the power of student-led civic engagement, showing how collaboration between students, schools, and community partners can lead to lasting improvements.

Recognition & Community Events

The project was recognized through ribbon-cutting ceremonies and community events, where students presented their work and were acknowledged by school district leaders, partners, and local representatives.

Closing Line

The Green Schoolyards initiative continues to grow, expanding to additional campuses and creating long-term benefits expected for students, schools, and the community.