Possible future outdoor learning classroom in People’s Park
The partners will begin exploring the concept and gathering feedback from the community.
311 or 509.755.2489
Thursday, August 8, 2024, 4:15 p.m.
Spokane, Washington – Today, the Park Service passed a resolution to explore the possibility of a pilot outdoor classroom project in People’s Park in partnership with Spokane Public Schools, the Spokane Indian Tribe, and the nonprofit organization k?u cnxi? (We Participate).
The outdoor learning center could serve as Spokane Public School’s official outdoor classroom, with a vernacular curriculum focused on experiential learning. People’s Park is an area rich in opportunities for historical, cultural and environmental learning.
The concept is still in its infancy and the Park Board’s decision is the first step to begin developing concepts and gathering feedback from the community.
“It’s exciting to design a new activation like this, build on great partnerships and see how this special place can become even more special in the future,” said Garrett Jones, interim city administrator. “The project is highly aligned with our master plan for environmental education, natural land management and school and tribal collaboration.”
“This collaboration between Spokane Public Schools, Spokane Parks & Recreation, and the Spokane Indian Tribe illustrates the power of community partnerships in creating innovative learning environments never before created with this level of cultural integrity,” said Cree Whelshula, executive director of k?u cnxi? (We Join In). “By focusing on land-based education and engaging our Fluent Elders and Knowledge Keepers, we foster a deeper connection to our cultural heritage while providing our students with a holistic and enriching educational experience. Together, we are paving the way for future generations to succeed both academically and culturally.”
“Since time immemorial, tribes have been the custodians of the air, land and waters of their homeland. Immersing our youth in place-based education near the Spokane River will heal our hearts and connect us with our ancestors,” said Tiger Peone of the Spokane Tribal Council. “I am grateful for the relationship we have with Lisa Brown, Mayor of the City of Spokane, and her officials, as well as Adam Swinyard, Spokane Public Schools, and their administration. Together with Cree Welshula and k?u cnxi?, we have formed a team that shares the same dream for the success of our youth and culture. This effort reflects the positive collaboration we have built, and we look forward to developing more projects with our team in the future.”
“The collaboration between Spokane Public Schools, k?u cnxi? (We Join In) and the Spokane Indian Tribe is an exciting opportunity to foster a deeper connection between our students and the rich cultural and natural heritage of our community,” said Dr. Adam Swinyard, Superintendent of Spokane Public Schools. “This will improve educational outcomes and support the holistic development and well-being of our youth, as well as promote environmental stewardship, cultural integrity and community engagement.”
This fall, partners will begin drafting a framework for the pilot, including goals, roles/responsibilities, design concepts and timelines. They will also work together to gather neighborhood and community feedback on the preliminary concepts.
About the City of Spokane Parks & Recreation
Spokane Parks and Recreation manages nearly 120 properties on 4,000 acres of parkland, including manicured parks, natural landscapes, aquatic centers, golf courses, sports facilities and an arboretum. We also offer hundreds of recreational opportunities for all ages and abilities to improve the health and quality of life of our community. Enjoy all your city has to offer by visiting spokaneparks.org. Follow us at @SpokaneParks on Facebook, Instagram and X/Þjórsárden.
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