On May 23, Wharton-Smith, DAG Architects, and representatives from Bay District Schools hosted a groundbreaking ceremony in Lynn Haven, Florida to mark the beginning of construction for A. Crawford Mosley High School’s new outdoor education classroom. Led by Superintendent Bill Husfelt, Principal Brian Bullock, school board members, and a group of selected students, the event celebrated the much-needed upgrade from the old temporary building.
Distinguished as one of the first in Florida, the outdoor classroom strongly emphasizes wildlife preservation and conservation. Bay County School Board Chair Steve Moss highlighted the significance of hands-on learning in education: “If you look at all the stats, the best type of learning is hands-on learning, and this outdoor education classroom gets hands-on learning 100%.”
The inception of this program can be attributed to the students and teachers of Mosley High School, who first conceptualized it in 1993. Over the years, the outdoor classroom has provided a platform for teachers to showcase vital skills such as boater safety, net throwing techniques, archery, and other engaging activities. Additionally, it offers students valuable preparation for future careers in fields like forestry or fish and wildlife work.
Superintendent Husfelt expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “So, we’re all excited about this project, and we’re excited about what it’s going to mean for the students in this program. And as Steve said, we think this will be a model for schools in the south because one of our greatest resources is the outdoors.”
Replacing the old temporary building, the new facility is set to be constructed at an estimated cost of three million dollars. The funding will primarily come from local tax dollars, and the construction process will take approximately one year to complete.
Reflecting on the impact of outdoor education, Mosley High School student Wyatt Suggs shared his perspective, stating, “Programs like outdoor education, whether in the classroom or the community as a club, really lays the foundation for someone like myself who loves the outdoors or wants to further the passion for the outdoors in nature and their environment. I’m excited about this program’s future with this new facility’s help. Thank you all very much.”
