Briarcliff Elementary just received a much needed makeover. The outdoor classroom, located on the hill behind the school, was recently rebuilt and turned into a user-friendly area. The classroom was originally built in 1994 for the school to use as an additional learning space. Throughout the years, the weeds and critters took over the space making it impractical and unsafe to use.
Aaron Glasgow, an Eagle Scout member from Troop 367, had an idea to transform the area into a usable space for the school and community. By completing this project, Aaron could earn his Eagle in scouting, which is the highest honor a boy receives.
“Aaron and his dad have been working towards this accomplishment since he began scouts in 1st grade,” says his mother, Kerrie Glasgow. “It's wonderful to see it come to fruition.”
Mrs. Glasgow is a 1st grade teacher at Briarcliff and understood the necessity to revamp the classroom. Aaron proceeded with his idea and drew up an extensive plan that covered cost, labor, materials and time. The plan was signed off by his Scout Commissioner and Scout Master, Briarcliff Principal Kate Place and Briarcliff Community Alliance.
The project kicked off on Sept. 18 with the help of family, friends, scouts and community members. Overgrown weeds and grass had to be pulled before demolition could begin. Afterwards, the stairs, benches and platform were ripped up and replaced with new lumber and gravel. It was certainly not an easy task. “Thankfully we had wonderful scouts, friends, neighbors and family volunteers to help with the labor,” says Kerrie.
They had an efficient system going so everyone was always working on something. People at the top of the hill loaded up wheelbarrows with gravel, other people rolled them down the hill to dump the gravel, while people at the bottom spread it on the stairs and sitting area. After eight hours of hard labor, the classroom was transformed into a beautifully functional space. Everyone, especially Mrs. Glasgow, were more than thrilled to see this come together.
“The school will now have an outdoor area that classrooms or grade levels can go read on, put on readers-theater, eat lunch, etc.,” says Kerrie. “Before, the area was unsafe for the students due to ditches, loose boards, and no gravel.”
Furthermore, Aaron also gained a lot from this experience. He learned how to plan out a large project and see it through from beginning to end. It’s even more rewarding that the final product can be used for so many things. He definitely made his momma proud.
“I got to see a side of my child that some parents don't ever see,” says Kerrie. “He's growing from a boy to a man who is caring, giving,and responsible.”
In addition to the outdoor classroom getting remodeled, the paved walking trail surrounding the school was also cleaned up. Briarcliff Community Alliance Treasurer Tim Johnston, cleared away the grass and weeds that were overtaking the path. He also cut the bushes back so walkers don’t have to dodge branches. The Alliance is working to get the path re-sealed. A water runoff project is also in the works to protect the classroom.
Overall, it was a productive day in Briarcliff. All the volunteers, including Mrs. Glasgow, are very grateful for the new addition to the school and community.
“Thank you to everyone for making this possible!”
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