The Red Hook Education Foundation provided a $12,000 grant toward the construction of an outdoor stage and classroom at Mill Road School. And now the “playground stage” is up and in full use!

Working from the belief that children benefit from creative play, the stage platform invites students to collaborate on improvised skits, dances and other impromptu performances. Within this safe, familiar environment, they can hone performance and public speaking skills. Tiered seating opposite the stage makes performances accessible to all members of the school community.

In addition, the stage is also an “outdoor classroom” for teachers to use when they wish to bring students outside for a particular lesson, or to offer an alternative-learning environment. The space is ideal for outdoor presentations such as those involving animals, drumming or “messy” activities that don’t lend themselves to traditional classrooms.

The stage is located against the tree line separating the playgrounds from the soccer fields behind the school, where the picnic tables are located. A natural arc created by a few birch trees forms the backdrop of the stage.

This project was a true community effort, made possible by the inspiration, drive, sponsorship, expertise, time and resource of the MRS PTA,  Koerner Construction, Kristina Dousharm Architecture, Cindy Kubik and the MRS principals!