The Marathon Area Elementary School Outdoor Classroom is an outdoor learning center located under a solar panel canopy, adjacent to the school district’s existing pond and nature path for outdoor educational activities.
This outdoor classroom benefits students by connecting them with nature in a structured learning environment. Solar panels reduce school district electrical costs and monitoring software allows teachers to demonstrate to students energy production and savings. The design of the enclosed area provides space for studying with microscopes, while outside, ample space and whiteboards support outdoor learning. The photovoltaic structure captures sunlight from above and below, maximizing energy efficiency year-round savings.
The solar panel pergola structure not only creates a water-tight roof system, but also generates power for the school district to lower their energy costs and help educate students on sustainability efforts.
