Inclusive social and emotional outdoor learning courtyard dedicated

A ribbon cutting ceremony was held to unveil the new courtyard at Greater Johnstown Elementary School. The space features an outdoor classroom for learning academics, holding restorative circles, and social and emotional six-minute lessons. The enclosed courtyard also contains a play yard with equipment to accommodate our learners who experience sensory and mobility issues.

The courtyard is an demonstration of the district’s overall commitment to student wellness. According to the Greater Johnstown website, “social and emotional skills are critical to being a good student, citizen and worker. Many risky behaviors can be prevented or reduced when multiyear, integrated efforts are used to develop students’ social and emotional skills. This is best done through effective classroom instruction, student engagement in positive activities in and out of the classroom, and broad parent and community involvement in program planning, implementation, and evaluation.”