At the Mt. Vernon Education Foundation, we believe that learning doesn’t just happen within the four walls of a classroom—it happens wherever imagination, curiosity, and opportunity meet. That’s why we proudly funded Jessica Buell’s visionary grant for “Enhancing Outdoor Learning Spaces with Sun Sails and Benches” at Mount Comfort Elementary with an award of $2,409.94.

Jessica’s proposal wasn’t just about adding benches or creating shade—it was about transforming an underused outdoor space into a vibrant, flexible learning environment where students can connect with nature, collaborate with their peers, and thrive in new and creative ways.

We were inspired by her vision to reimagine outdoor learning—not as a luxury, but as a necessity. With sun sails to protect students from harmful UV rays and durable benches to provide structure and comfort, this new outdoor classroom will offer a safe, inviting place for students to learn, explore, and grow.

The benefits are clear:

• Students stay more engaged and focused when they learn in fresh, open-air settings.
• Physical and mental well-being improve, as natural light and movement reduce stress and boost mood.
• Environmental awareness grows, as students build a hands-on relationship with the world around them.
• Community connections strengthen, with a space that can be used beyond school hours for family gatherings and school events.

This investment is more than shade and seating—it’s about creating a sense of place and possibility. It’s about showing our students that learning is not confined to a desk, and that the world around them is part of their education.

At MVEF, we’re honored to support projects like this that spark innovation, promote wellness, and elevate the student experience. We can’t wait to see the joy on students’ faces as they gather under the sun sails—reading, sharing, experimenting, and learning in a space designed just for them.

Together, we’re building brighter futures—one outdoor classroom at a time.