The Indiana Kiwanis Club and Ben Franklin Elementary School (Indiana Area School District) are pleased and excited to announce a partnership in developing an outdoor learning space at the school. The goal is to take an unused area of land and turn it into a space for students to learn and grow – that’s accessible to all. The space will contain areas to eat, explore, exercise, play, observe wildlife and garden.

When Principal Kelly Urbani was informed that the Indiana Kiwanis Club would provide a financial contribution of over $44,000 for the area, she stated she, “was completely overwhelmed by the club’s kindness and the children are lucky to have such a caring community.”

Sean Moran, first grade teacher and lead on the project, said he was “thankful the club making the dream come true for the Ben Franklin family and the kids are going to love the space.”

The Outdoor Learning Space will have distinct areas, including a pavilion (which was recently built with donations from the community); a gathering space or large instructional area; gardens; a sensory area; and a food court.

The Indiana Kiwanis Club is providing a donation to cover the cost of paved sidewalks through the area to ensure accessibility for all students and for a bridge, amphitheater, trees, and rock garden. Club President Wayne Obitz “loves the project” and is especially glad the thought was given to including access for all students, teachers and visitors. A ground breaking date will be announced and progress will be posted to the Indiana Kiwanis Club’s Facebook page.