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The project will involve a Garry Oak restoration and natural revitalization on the front school grounds. An under-used inner courtyard will be transformed into a self-sustaining, natural, learning and relaxing common area. Natural species, garden beds with water management, and aesthetic elements are components of the design.

HISTORY

RGSP began when the Principals Advisory Board at Reynolds expressed an interest in remediation of the schools inner courtyard and in general grounds beautification. The Parents Advisory Council supported these goals. Early attempts to start this work lacked funding and longer term planning interest.

More recently the ideas were regenerated when the Sierra Club and its Sustainable High Schools Project looked at ecological system models for Reynolds.

Continued interest in ecological issues led up to the formation of The Green Group at Reynolds.   This group articulated the initiatives discussed over the years into project elements.

The Green Group mission : Reclaim-Conserve-Green

The inner courtyard and the front streetscape of the school grounds were identified as areas to express the Green Group mission.

The Green Group mission : Reclaim-Conserve-Green

The inner courtyard and the front streetscape of the school grounds were identified as areas to express the Green Group mission.

The Front Grounds of the school were envisioned to be a statement to the community.
The look of the school entrance needs to visually tell the community that Reynolds is al unique, environmentally conscious place for learning and growth. To visualize these concepts, a Garry Oak Stand on these grounds will be restored.

The grounds will be further enhanced with natural species and the surrounding area will undergo aesthetic improvements. The front entrance will be both functional and inviting.

The Courtyard Vision incorporates:

  • Cement Removal
  • Storm water management
  • Terracing the bank for outdoor natural seating
  • Creating an outdoor aesthetic stage at the bottom for performances and presentations
  • Creating a natural species garden with paths and setting
  • Creating a raised beds under career center windows with composting
  • A design to be self sustaining; and designed to attract birds, bats and butterflies
  • Incorporating art elements including art mosaics on inner courtyard walls
 
 
 

RSGP will be realized in three phases.

Planning – A Leadership Victoria team is creating the planning document for the RGSP, as a community action project. This will be completed in May, 2008.

Construction – The Garry Oak restoration will begin this year, conducted by a team from the University of Victoria Department of Environmental Studies and students from Reynolds Secondary. The remainder of the project will begin next year and is expected to take two years to complete. Students will be involved in the construction phase of the project. Sponsors and donations of materials and labour will help the project become a reality.

Sustainability – The completed project will be enjoyed by the community who view and use the school. The natural settings by will be enjoyed by staff and students, offering ongoing lessons in environment, sustainable practices and natural ecosystems. The design will serve as a model for other schools considering similar projects.
 
 

It is planned that the transformation undertaken at Reynolds will serve as a model for other schools.

Students and staff will continue to realize their project by being hands on in the construction phases.

Community will benefit through:

  1. Enhancements of a public facility
  2. Beautification of a public area
  3. Learning opportunities created on sustainability, environment, community partnerships, planning and natural ecosystems
  4. Opportunities to support a legacy project