Outdoor Learning
In 2020 we decided to make lemonade out of lemons and incorporated outdoor learning at Matunuck that will last for years to come. Outdoor learning at Matunuck Elementary was something that our learning community has aspired to establish for years, and we are so excited that our students now have such amazing outdoor space.
​
In conjunction with Mrs. McGuire, the PTO would like to thank the Eagle Scout and then the Boy Scout troops that cleared the path in front of Matunuck Elementary three years ago, referred to as the "Matunuck's Nature Trail". Since that time parent volunteers have kept the path possible. Our current parent volunteers have worked hard to expand upon this space to make outdoor learning feasible.
On this page we have prepared various ways that you can help make outdoor learning feasible. There are opportunities for families to be involved by volunteering their time and or resources to help establish these outdoor learning spaces at Matunuck Elementary. Donated items can be gently used, so please take a look in your basement or garage!
If you are interested in helping please sign up below or send Mrs. McGuire an email (emcguire@sksd-ri.net) to see how you can be a part of this legacy!
Donate an Item
If you would like to donate to the outdoor learning, we have prepared a list of some items that would enhance outdoor learning opportunities, there are items that would be needed new and there are items that have been gently used that would be so helpful. So please take a look in your basement or garage! To see if there is something you would like to donate to the school please use the Amazon Wish List button for items that can be purchased through Amazon and Donate an Item button for wish list of other new items and gently used items.
Monetary Donation
We have three ways you can donate.
-
You can send a check directly to the school (380 Matunuck Beach Rd, Wakefield, RI 02879) that is made out to Matunuck Elementary PTO.
-
Donate via Venmo, https://venmo.com/matunuck-pto
-
Donate through use of a credit card. The "Monetary Donation" button will allow for credit card donations.
To create the outdoor learning space we are in need of some larger purchases like playground mulch around the outdoor classrooms in the nature trail. Any amount is helpful! We are a 501c(3) organization, check to see if your company provides any company matches.
​
​
Another Idea to Help?
If you have other ideas that you think would be helpful to improve the outdoor learning experience please reach out to Mrs. McGuire (emcguire@sksd-ri.net). We are stronger together!
Progress and Photos!
We officially have established two nature classrooms, as well as a reading area and outdoor teacher break room. A HUGE thank you to the Mulanaphy, Ritorto, Gazerro, Marchand, Brown, and Roebuck families who spread mulch in the Matunuck Nature Trail and the outdoor learning spaces directly off the trail. Special thank you to the Geary Family for sanding the tree stump seating that was generously donated by Atlantic Marine Construction, Clapham-Smith, Verrecchia-Marr, Gazerro, and Brown families. Thank you to Desiree Demos, Brian Kleczek and Rick O’Neil helping to move our tree stumps! Three wooden benches have been generously donated by the Bessette family. The Jouberts and Fishers have generously donated outside patio furniture for an outdoor staff “room.” Thank you to Christine Hancock, Melisa Verrecchia and MaryLou Alfred for donating wagons for our use. Thank you Danielle Ritorto for spending many hours creating wooden manipulatives for students to use this school year and future years. Many families have purchased items from the Amazon Wish List and others have donated items from home that will enhance the students outdoor learning experience; thank you.
​
​
​
Enjoy some photos from our outdoor learning area.
