Oakwood Middle Schoolers Design Multi-Use Outdoor Space for Their School

Thanks to the creativity and initiative of Oakwood Middle School students in What If 101, and a winning team from Stark Idea Quest, The Eagles Nest is becoming a reality!

During Fall 2023’s What If 101 class, the students were challenged to answer the question, “How can we help our school community thrive?” Inspired by their research on mental health and the benefits of outdoor spaces, these students envisioned a welcoming courtyard where peers and teachers can gather, learn, and recharge.

They put together design plans and budgets and presented their idea to Plain Local Schools and received funding through the Star Grant. With additional support from the PTO and school staff, this project is now moving forward—bringing fresh air, connection, and new possibilities to the Oakwood community.

Delilah, Olivia, Noah, Serena, Auria, Maci, and Bailey led conversations about the variety of mental health challenges their peers face. They researched mental health and discovered how getting outdoors can result in positive cognitive shifts. These students realized an outdoor space would help their school community thrive.

Introducing… The Eagles Nest! 

“Our goal is to create a safe, active, educational, and all around beneficial outdoor school courtyard called The Eagles Nest, located at Oakwood Middle School. During our exploration, we found that Oakwood has a very spacious green space right outside the cafeteria that would easily provide a place to enjoy the outdoors. We knew right away it would be perfect for what we need. 

The Eagles Nest will provide and promote health benefits by encouraging students, teachers, and our community to find a space to be outdoors. This area will be available for lunch, outdoor activities, or creating an outdoor classroom for the day.”

– Delilah and Olivia, when applying for the Star Grant alongside teacher Zach Marzilli

Learn more about the Star Grant