Resilient San Carlos Schoolyards (RSCS) seizes a critical opportunity to incorporate schoolyards into the broader climate resilience efforts in our communities to reduce the impacts of more powerful storms, drought, high heat and water quality degradation. As defined through initial project steps, “Resilient Schoolyards” provide more developmental benefits to the unique requirements of different age groups while also acting as Climate Resilient places. They host forested grounds that both protect from heat and stand up to drought, while inspiring awe and nature-based play. They highlight green infrastructure elements like rain gardens, pervious paving, and stormwater retention basins, that both manage stormwater and provide opportunities to expand hands-on outdoor learning.

RSCS was comprised of five tasks, accomplished through the collaboration of the Project Team (a multi-agency group), the Stakeholder Advisory Committees for each school (administration, staff, students, family members, NGO volunteers), and the Consulting Team (Bay Tree Design, Lotus Water, and Green Schoolyards America): develop project goals and select three sites for concept plans, conduct stakeholder engagement, deliver school site surveys (inclusive of encompassing watersheds), design schoolyard concept plans, and a create comprehensive project report. The 100-page report provides a record of the entire process and suggests next steps for this precedent-setting project which was adopted by the School Board.

Location
San Carlos, CA

Client
City/County Association of Governments of San Mateo County (C/CAG)

Completed
2023