More Than Just Bricks and Mortar

Against the backdrop of a clear blue sky, there was a palpable sense of anticipation and joy in the air, mirroring the enthusiasm of the 5,000 sixth graders who arrive on Outdoor Lab's campuses each year. Last week, staff and interns from both Outdoor Lab sites, Jeffco administrators, former principals, and the Foundation all gathered to celebrate the ribbon cutting and site renaming ceremony at Mt. Blue Sky Outdoor Lab.

With the help of sixth graders, the ribbon on the new dining hall was cut, signifying not just the physical opening of a building but the transformation of this space into a sanctuary of growth, camaraderie, and shared experiences.

In the Fall of 2018, Jeffco voters approved a $567 million bond for essential capital improvement projects across the district's schools, representing a collective commitment to enhancing the learning environment for generations to come. At Mt. Blue Sky, this commitment materialized into the new dining hall that started welcoming students at the beginning of the 2023/24 school year. The Outdoor Lab Foundation, buoyed by the generosity of donors and supporters, contributed $100,000 to the creation of this space that goes beyond the realms of bricks and mortar.

This project addressed not only the immediate need for a functional dining space, but also recognized the importance of infrastructure. The dining hall, with its breathtaking views, is designed to accommodate 200 students and staff comfortably, fostering an environment where shared meals become moments of connection. The inclusion of a commercial kitchen ensured the practicality of the space, providing nourishing meals that fuel both body and mind.

Furthermore, the project delved into the core of the site’s infrastructure, conducting a complete overhaul of the electrical systems. This was not merely a matter of modernization but a necessity dictated by age and capacity limitations. This comprehensive approach ensured that the new facilities were not only aesthetically pleasing but also functionally efficient, setting the stage for seamless operations.

As students, teachers, and Outdoor Lab community members gather in this new space, they are stepping into a future shaped by the values of education and boundless opportunity. The legacy of this investment will continue shaping the educational journey of countless students and fostering a sense of community that extends far beyond the walls of these buildings.

Colorado Gives Day

Early Giving Starts Next Week!

Donate to the Outdoor Lab Foundation anytime between Nov. 1 and Colorado Gives Day on Dec. 5 and your gift will be amplified by the Colorado Gives Foundation and FirstBank incentive fund! Click below to add the early giving date to your calendar, then make your gift starting on Nov. 1.

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