This project has been many years in the making. It has been a tremendous partnership between Macon County Schools STEM Program, Macon County Soil and Water Conservation District, and several non-profits and local businesses. We have secured 100% of the funding through grants to complete the project and, in the end, we hope that this "school-yard habitat" will be not only an educational space for our students from Macon Middle & Mountain View Intermediate to learn but a beautiful space for the public to enjoy and a space for native plants and animals to thrive.
The project will begin this Spring 2024 and we plan to complete the project in early Fall 2024. A nature trail, split rail fence, and signage will provide an educational space for our students to learn. Teachers from our Natural Resources, Science, and Outdoor Explorations classes have expressed an interest in using the space for nature studies and student research projects. Teachers from other disciplines want outdoor spaces for reflection, journaling, and exercise. The addition of this trail will create a loop trail around the school that both schools can enjoy. Native trees and other plants will be added to the space and future seating areas will be added once additional grant funding is secured. Students have even created three informational signs that will be installed. Finally, the project will also create manicured spaces adjacent to the road and the school making it look more appealing to those driving by our schools. These mowed spaces will create more of a park-like setting.
If you have questions about the project, don't hesitate to contact STEM Coordinator Jennifer Love at the Macon County Administrative Offices.
