The Middle School Building Committee meeting held on April 14, 2025, focused on the development of outdoor play spaces and classrooms for the Norwood school district. Key discussions revolved around the design and budget for these enhancements, which aim to create engaging and functional outdoor environments for students.

Committee members outlined plans for an outdoor play area that would include a basketball court larger than a half court, sensory spaces, and various games such as hopscotch and four square. The estimated cost for this 2,471 square foot area is approximately $30,000. Additionally, the design team has proposed a fee of $30,644 to complete the design for both the outdoor play space and an outdoor classroom.

The outdoor classroom is envisioned as a versatile learning area featuring hard seating, tables with sun protection, raised garden beds, and a reading circle designed in a semi-circle amphitheater style. The committee discussed the potential for incorporating outdoor heaters to extend the usability of the space.

Next steps involve approving the design proposal, which will allow the design team to create detailed plans for the outdoor spaces. The committee emphasized that this approval would only initiate the design phase, not the construction of the facilities. The discussions reflect a commitment to enhancing the educational environment for students through innovative outdoor learning spaces.