SCHOOLYARD RENDERINGS PRODUCED BY UWM’S School of Architecture and Urban Planning (SARUP)

*Renderings are intended plans for the schoolyard and are subject to change.

Emerson School’s community and partners have developed a common vision for a redeveloped greener, healthier schoolyard. The school is actively fundraising to help transform their conceptual plan into reality through December 2025.

Emerson School is located within the Milwaukee River Watershed and Separated Sewer Service Area. The conceptual plan calls for removal of asphalt and replacing it with new green space and mixed-use recreation and educational areas. The design includes multiple gathering areas, bioswales, and the addition of many stormwater trees. The inclusion of a variety of native plantings allow for unique spaces on the schoolyard that can represent natural Wisconsin ecosystems, complete with student-created signage.

Learn About the Plan

BEFORE Redevelopment

Perspective Drawing showing nature play, playfields, pathways, an outdoor classroom, a bioswale, gaga ball pits, trees and grass

Conceptual Design Plan

Perspective Drawing showing enhanced outdoor classroom with rainwater harvesting, raised bed gardens, trees, gaga ball and traffic garden

Perspective Drawing showing nature play, an outdoor classroom, bioswale with pathways, trees and grass

Green Team Documents & Resources

Conceptual plan drawings
Meeting Minutes
Project Folder

Emerson School
9025 W Lawrence Ave.,
Milwaukee, WI 53225

CONTACT INFORMATION

Gena Stezala
Acting Principal In Charge
Emerson School
blakesgl@milwaukee.k12.wi.us

Sue Schwabe
Early Childhood Special Education Teacher
Emerson School
schwabse@milwaukee.k12.wi.us

Lisa Neeb
Green & Healthy Schools Program Manager
Reflo - Sustainable Water Solutions
lisa.neeb@RefloH2o.com

Our new Green Playground will create a sense of pride and ownership for the Emerson community, as families and local partners are able to be involved in its design and development. I believe it will provide an invaluable resource that not only nurtures the minds of our students but also strengthens the ties that bind our school to the broader community.

- Gena Stezala – Principal