Design Thinking Recess in the MS

Last spring 8th grade students engaged in a very interesting Design Thinking exercise aimed at good old fashioned recess.  Brainstorming ways to have access to outdoor play, in particular low maintenance lawn games like frisbee, ladder golf, horseshoes, and pick up soccer, the students looked to a sustainable use of the MIddle School Green. The excitement generated by the possibilities were palpable, encouraging the Parent's Committee to donate the majority of the funding for tables and chairs along the green to encourage socializing amidst the game playing.  Now, everyday at 10:00 am the Green is bustling with activity, students running around and having fun or gathering just to catch up with each other.  “This space is great for the kids, the classroom, and the community,” said Middle School Math teacher and Eighth Grade Head Advisor Dion Lehman. “The end goal was to simply get kids outside and playing,” continued Mr. Lehman. “It can be a long school day for our energetic Middle School students, so this is an outlet for them to run around and get some fresh air.”