Replacement Tent for Grade 3
Please help our 3rd grade have an amazing, safe and memorable year!
In the recent historic wind storm, our outdoor tent-style classroom received severe damage. Several frame poles were bent and broken, the shells received damage to the tie-down rivets and holes in the roof and seams were created. There have been many attempts hours spend trying to patch, repair, and stabilize the structure in general, but with the inclement weather fast approaching, both the shell and frame continue to be less and less safe or secure. It is clear we must look at getting a new structure in order to move forward with using an outdoor classroom model.
Meeting in an outdoor learning environment allows us to balance the need for meeting safety standards that are needed to honor the more vulnerable members of our community with also providing rich and meaningful learning. Outdoor learning provides an optimal setting for social interactions. Learning and playing with children their own age plays an important role in children’s learning, it helps them to organize their thoughts, reflect on their understanding, and organically find gaps in their reasoning. “The results of learning outdoors are overwhelmingly positive and include benefits for academic performance, health and well-being, and child development.” (https://www.waldorfeducation.org/news-resources/essentials-in-education-blog/detail/~board/essentials-in-ed-board/post/amidst-pandemic-waldorf-schools-see-resurgence-in-outdoor-learning)
After losing one structure already, it is clear what was purchased for the class was not adequate for the location. Through research and consultation, the best option is an investment in a canvas wall tent along with aluminum framing. The canvas and fly are naturally water proof, and can withstand wind, rain and snow for long periods. Many people use this style tent for semi-permanent living and glamming. With our existing platforms still very usable, an 18’ x 23’, 12oz canvas structure with aluminum framing is a size that will support our class, fit on the platform, and has ratcheted guy lines included. The cost includes adding in a 2nd door to allow for full ventilation, zippered windows on the sides, and a fly cover with 5’ porch to allow for dry entering/exiting and long term protection and insulation. The tents are in stock and can arrive within 3-5 days after ordering, so we can have a stable and safe place to learn before the pacific NW weather arrives!
Check out the style that would work for our class here:
https://montanacanvas.com/
From before the storm:
