In 2025, Albert E. Kagel School celebrated the major construction of their Green & Healthy Schoolyard—in this space previously dominated by impervious asphalt. Through a three-year, multi-phase process, students, community members, partners, and other stakeholders worked together to design this project and raise funds to make their shared vision real. This intentionally holistic approach resulted in green infrastructure for stormwater management, outdoor education spaces, enhanced recreation amenities, and a revitalized schoolyard that fosters curricular connections, play, and a deeper connection with nature.

Kagel School’s greener, healthier schoolyard manages approximately 225,340 gallons of stormwater per rain event.

SCHOOLYARD RENDERINGS PRODUCED BY UWM’S COMMUNITY DESIGN SOLUTIONS


The Plan

Review the school’s conceptual plan in greater detail, including designs, cost estimates, curricular connections, and maintenance considerations.


Green Team Documents & Resources / Documentos y recursos del equipo verde

Conceptual Plan Drawings / dibujos de planos conceptuales
Minutes
/ ACTAS DE LA REUNIÓN
Project Folder / CARPETA DE PROYECTOr


Vision in a nutshell

Make sure your donation goes to KAGEL SCHOOL

 

Albert E. Kagel School
1210 W Mineral St.
Milwaukee, WI 53204


CONTACT INFORMATION

Juan Mejia
Principal
Kagel School
mejiajc@milwaukee.k12.wi.us

Maria Ramirez Acevedo
K-3 Headstart Bilingual Teacher 
Kagel School
ramiremm@milwaukee.k12.wi.us

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

I strongly believe that with the new playground renovation, the students will have a better quality of outdoor time, families will be satisfied that their children are enjoying and learning about nature, and the whole neighborhood will have extra opportunities to exercise a little more with the many activities this new playground will provide for everyone!

- Yani Arteaga - Parent Coordinator

TIMELINE

2023
Conceptual Design

2024
Fundraising

2025
Detailed Design, Permitting, & Construction

2026+
Maintenance & Stewardship

Learn more about the other four schools in cohort 7