SCHOOLYARD RENDERINGS produced by UWM’s Community Design Solutions
In 2024, Milwaukee Sign Language & Morse Middle 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. Milwaukee Sign Language & Morse Middle School plans to manage approximately 836,080 gallons of stormwater per rain event.
The Plan
Review the school’s conceptual plan and summary brochure in greater detail, including designs, cost estimates, curricular connections, and maintenance considerations.
TIMELINE
2022
Conceptual Design
2023
Fundraising
2024
Detailed Design, Permitting, & Construction
2025+
Maintenance & Stewardship
Milwaukee Sign Language
& Morse Middle School
7900 W Acacia St.
Milwaukee, WI 53223
CONTACT INFORMATION
Suzanne Gahan
Principal
Milwaukee Sign Language School
gahansm@milwaukee.k12.wi.us
Kristi Hepp
5th Grade Teacher
Milwaukee Sign Language School
heppkl@milwaukee.k12.wi.us
Tanzanique Carrington
Principal
Morse Middle School for the Gifted & Talented
harristc@milwaukee.k12.wi.us
Lisa Neeb
Green & Healthy Schools Program Manager
Reflo - Sustainable Water Solutions
lisa.neeb@RefloH2o.com
I’m excited that the kids will have so many areas in which they can not only play, but EXPLORE! Goodbye, endless concrete! Hello, outdoor learning and fun! I think the community will also see that this can be a valuable resource for everyone.
- Kory Koneazny, K4 Teacher
Learn more about the other four schools in cohort 6
