“Outdoor classroom” means more than just a playground here at John M. Patterson School. John M. Patterson School is a place where learning extends beyond the traditional four walls. I am excited to share its story with you.
John M. Patterson School stands as a public elementary school. It is located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. John M. Patterson School strives to cultivate an environment. This environment ensures quality instruction. Its mission is to educate, prepare, and empower all students. High expectations are set. A core curriculum embeds diverse programming into rigorous instruction.
Let’s wander back to 2018. John M. Patterson School replaced its hard asphalt surface with a vibrant outdoor learning space. This transformation included a basketball court, a running track, and a rain garden. Principal Kenneth Jessup noted a remarkable improvement. In-school suspensions dropped from 50 per year to zero. The outdoor classroom has been a success.
The school also has a Future Scholars after-school program. An Amongst Men mentoring program exists for boys. John M. Patterson School has an Art Goes to School partnership. A Lower Merion Music Collaborative partnership is in place too.
John M. Patterson School utilizes the School District of Philadelphia’s Office of School Safety. This office comprises School Police Operations and incident management. It enhances student safety with collaboration from various groups. These groups include administrators, teachers, police, and community members.
The school also provides support services. A guidance counselor, a nurse practitioner, and a school psychologist are available. The School Police Support Services Unit and the Crisis Response Team also help.
John M. Patterson School ensures children have access to learning. The school keeps up with the latest technologies. It takes advantage of available resources. There are computers available for students. Websites are blocked to ensure children use computers safely.
John M. Patterson School faces the issue of divorce among families. The school counselor and psychologist help children cope. John M. Patterson School also combats childhood obesity. The school has a program called Universal Breakfast. It provides free breakfasts to students and families. This program offers healthy options. These options enhance academic performance.
John M. Patterson School integrates outdoor learning. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the school considered outdoor classrooms. The transmission risk is lower outdoors. Holding classes outside has benefits for children.
Principal Jessup expressed his enthusiasm. He saw the excitement in the kids. They saw outdoor classes as a treat. They were more engaged.
John M. Patterson School serves over 380 students. It offers grades from Pre-K to 4th. John M. Patterson School is committed to its mission. It provides a safe and enriching learning environment.