Students at Tryon Elementary School are taking learning beyond the classroom walls through an exciting hands-on project focused on the development of the school’s Tiger Trail, including the construction of a new information kiosk and an outdoor classroom area.
The Tiger Trail project was designed to connect students with nature while creating meaningful learning opportunities across grade levels. Students have worked together to research local ecosystems, design trail features and help develop educational stations that will benefit both the school and the community. Students recently gathered for a dedication ceremony to celebrate their hard work.
One of the newest additions to the trail is a student-supported kiosk located near the entrance of the trail system. The kiosk provides maps, details of upcoming projects, educational facts about native plants and wildlife, and highlights of learning stations found along the trail.
In addition to the kiosk, students helped create an outdoor classroom area where teachers can bring learning outdoors for science investigations, reading activities, writing lessons and environmental studies. Champions for Wildlife, a community organization, led multiple programs centered around native wildlife and integrating art in their lessons. Throughout the past two years, CFW has brought educational experiences to each grade level and facilitated unique projects connected to native pollinators, birds, native plants and the unique ecosystems that need to be created to see wildlife thrive on the trail.
Teachers say the project has created excitement and engagement by allowing students to apply classroom learning in real-world ways.
“Our students are more engaged when they can experience learning firsthand,” said Dr. John Mauldin, Tryon Elementary’s principal. “The Tiger Trail and outdoor classroom have given students opportunities to explore, investigate, collaborate, and take pride in creating something meaningful for our entire school community.”
Fourth grade teacher JJ Waddell shared how the trail has impacted student learning.
“The Tiger Trail has transformed the way students connect with science and nature,” Waddell said. “Students are more curious, ask deeper questions and remember concepts better because they are learning through direct experiences outdoors.”
School leaders believe the project will continue to benefit students for years to come by promoting environmental awareness, teamwork, creativity, and hands-on learning opportunities. The Tiger Trail and outdoor classroom area are expected to become an important part of daily instruction and a valued resource for both students and the Tryon community.
Future expansion projects are in development. If you or your organization would like to support upcoming phases of the Tiger Trail, please contact Mauldin at Tryon Elementary School.
