Just In Time For Students’ Return To School After Pandemic Lockdown
The aging and overgrown outdoor classroom at Race Brook Elementary School in Orange included decaying tree stump seats and dilapidated picnic benches and it was in dire need of renovation.
Frankie Cavallaro, a Boy Scout with Troop 12 in Milford and an RBS alumnus, saw an opportunity to serve his community while working toward achieving his Eagle Scout rank:
“The outdoor classroom was in pretty bad shape, and it occurred to me that this was the perfect way for me to transform it into a more inviting and usable space to which staff and students might escape for some fresh air and social distancing during the school day,” he said.
Cavallaro solicited area businesses for material donations and set to work in his home garage constructing new bench seating and decorating them with school colors. He enlisted 10 other scouts from his troop to spend a Saturday cleaning out the area, weeding, edging, spreading new pea stone, assembling, and painting picnic tables.
Mike Gray, Director of Business and Operations for Orange Public Schools, said, “His efforts have led to an inviting open-air space that will certainly be utilized by students and staff at Race Brook School. Frankie is a fine example of youth putting their leadership skills into action and giving back.”
Cavallaro would like to thank the following organizations for the generous materials and financial contributions that made this project possible: Ivy League Landscaping, Home Depot in Orange, Rings End in Orange, and the Race Brook School PTA.
He would also like to thank his troop, Mr. Gray, and his parents for their assistance and support, “I couldn’t have done it without them!”
