Willa Cather Elementary School

2908 W Washington Blvd, East Garfield Park neighborhood

Willa Cather Elementary School’s Space to Grow schoolyard is a versatile and dynamic space for kids to learn and play. Among the changes and additions were a multipurpose turf field for soccer, football or baseball, a refurbished multipurpose sports court for tennis, volleyball and basketball, play equipment for students of all ages, edible gardens from The Kitchen Community for growing food and a rain garden with native plants.

The effects of Space to Grow were immediately evident to Principal Wanda Carey, who said the transformation was important because students and their families were not only learning about water conservation, but were also learning more about sustainable food sources and the impact of nutrition and movement on overall well-being.

“These efforts coincide with our school-wide focus on health and wellness,” Principal Carey said. “We are literally seeing significant changes in how our students eat, move and play. There has been a decrease in the number of unhealthy snacks and celebrations school-wide, and an increase in healthy foods in the school and home environment. Students are eagerly rushing to our brand new playground area before, during and after school to play in a safe, secure area.”

Read More about Willa Cather Elementary School

December 2015 | WaterWorld
Space to Grow Program Unveils Two New Schoolyard Transformations

December 2015 | Healthy Schools Campaign
Introducing the Space to Grow Song!

November 2015 | Healthy Schools Campaign
Opening Two New Space to Grow Schoolyards