Madras Elementary Schoolyard

Established in 1910 below the Cascade Mountains, the enchanting landscapes hug the City of Madras in every direction. Today, over 7,000 Oregonians call Madras home, and visitors and residents alike enjoy access to the beautiful high deserts and impressive network of walking and biking trails throughout the area. But within town, Trust for Public Land is dedicated to working with community members to build close-to-home green spaces that reflect their local vibrancy. When students play on the existing Madras Elementary schoolyard, the outdated play equipment and patchy grass areas are a sharp contrast to the stunning mountainous background. About 59 percent of students identify as Hispanic/Latino, Native American, or multi-racial and the school serves members of the Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs, which have established Madras as their ancestral homeland. Yet the existing play space does not embody the community’s cultures and aspirations.

With the community’s visions at the core, TPL is working with local partners to reimagine a community schoolyard that is built by the community, for the community. Using direct student and resident input, the refreshed schoolyard will come to life with new play equipment, gorgeous landscaping, and inclusive amenities for people of all abilities to enjoy. The schoolyard will help connect more Madras residents to the outdoors and nature’s benefits, including better health and better equity for generations to come.