NOSD Backyard
The transformation of the OES Playground into the NOSD backyard started as a wishful dream in the 2021-22 school year. Many stake holders began to dream about what that space could be. Through a lot of planning, strategic spending, and generous donors, the NOSD Backyard began to take form. In June of 2023, NOSD broke ground on the transformation.
It is our goal as a district to continue to develop the NOSD Backyard according to the dreams of the students engaging in it. The space was created to provide an additional location to encourage unscripted imaginative play that is rooted in adventure.
Through the use of the change in topography, structures to encourage large motor development, and loose parts students are able to reinvent their play daily while practicing safe risk taking.
Thank You
This space came to life as a result many hours from various contractors, community members, and staff members. We would not be where we are today without their dedication to this project and the vision behind the NOSD Backyard.
- The NOSD Maintenance Team
- Tom Paulus: Fillmore Restoration
- Ben Sipple: Sipple Electric
- Hal Steffen: Labor
- Dan Large: Resources
- Travis Steinert: Resource
- GRG Playscapes
- Parkitecture
- Russ Wetencamp: Mulch Express of WI
- JJ Winnemuller- JJ’s Lawn Service LLC.
- Generous Donors
Next Steps
The students have spoken and areas that they would like to see included in the NOSD Backyard include:
- Large Sand Pit
- Embankment Slide
- Climbing Structure for Middle School
We are currently obtaining bids and vetting out contractors to help with developing the next phase of the NOSD Backyard.
