James B Farnsworth Elementary School

5414 N. Linder Ave., Jefferson Park neighborhood

students play on the new Space to Grow schoolyard on Farnsworth Elementary in Chicago

The play area at Farnsworth Elementary School on Chicago’s northwest side used to be mostly asphalt. The small grassy area was covered in weeds and flooded after heavy rains. The playground equipment was missing pieces, and the rubber mat covering the ground had large gaps. It was not a great place for children to play, said Principal Barbara Oken.

After a Space to Grow transformation, the schoolyard at Farnsworth now has a track and turf field, play equipment for all ages and abilities, swings, an outdoor classroom and two rain gardens. Our partner Big Green Chicago also donated edible garden beds that the school is using to grow nutritious food!

Read More about Farnsworth

April 2018 | Space to Grow
A Schoolyard Plan Involves the Entire Community


Take a virtual tour of the Farnsworth Space to Grow schoolyard!