Mountain View Whisman School District outlines outdoor learning enhancements at 11 school sites

The Mountain View Parks and Recreation Commission and Urban Forestry Board convened on April 29, 2025, to discuss the Mountain View Whisman School District's Outdoor Learning Project, a significant initiative aimed at enhancing outdoor educational spaces across 11 school sites. The meeting, led by Assistant Community Services Director Christine Crosby, provided an opportunity for stakeholders to review updated concepts and offer feedback on the project.

Crosby emphasized that the project is entirely funded and managed by the Mountain View Whisman School District, with no formal recommendations required from the commission. The meeting served as a platform for community engagement, allowing parents, educators, and commission members to voice their opinions on the proposed designs.

George Lowe and Carly from Carducci Associates presented the project, detailing its evolution from a COVID-related initiative to a broader effort focused on creating diverse outdoor learning environments. The designs aim to increase greenery, provide shade, and enhance the overall comfort of school campuses. The Vargas school site was highlighted as a pilot project, with improvements already underway, including tree replacements and plans for further enhancements to the inner school yard.

The presentation included detailed plans for each school, addressing specific community needs and preferences. For instance, Amy and My Elementary School plans include nature play zones and seating areas, while Bub Elementary School aims to replace outdated play structures. Landels Elementary School is seeking to relocate a baseball diamond to improve campus layout and supervision.

The two middle schools, Crittenden and Graham, are set to receive upgrades that focus on social spaces and outdoor classrooms, catering to the unique needs of older students. The designs incorporate feedback from various stakeholders, including youth sports leagues, ensuring that athletic fields meet the requirements for organized sports.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue refining the designs based on community input, with the next steps involving further discussions and adjustments to the plans. The Outdoor Learning Project represents a collaborative effort to enhance educational environments in Mountain View, fostering a connection between students and nature while promoting outdoor learning opportunities.