Marathon Area Elementary School

The Marathon Area Elementary School Outdoor Classroom is an innovative outdoor learning space designed to enhance educational experiences while promoting sustainability.

Located beneath a solar panel canopy the classroom is situated next to the school district’s existing pond and nature path. The enclosed area within the structure offers students the chance to study natural objects using microscopes, while the surrounding outdoor space features whiteboards for various learning activities. The canopy was invented by the Couillard Solar Foundation, a nonprofit organization that helps schools, churches and nonprofits integrate solar power.

A standout feature of the project is the use of photovoltaic solar panels, which capture sunlight from both above and below the canopy, including reflections off the concrete slab and snow-covered ground. This unique design helps generate energy throughout the year, promoting sustainability and offering energy savings for the school. The solar panels not only provide electricity, but also serve as a hands-on educational tool for students, allowing them to track energy production and understand the connection between renewable energy and savings.

The project’s successful completion involved close cooperation between Scherrer Construction, the Marathon School District and other local partners. Scherrer implemented a robust safety program that included OSHA training, weekly safety audits and regular “Toolbox Talks” to ensure a secure work environment for all involved. The collaboration with the school district was vital in shaping a space that benefits both students and the broader community.

In addition to providing an outdoor learning environment, the project addresses the community’s environmental goals by generating renewable energy, reducing the district’s electrical costs and educating students about sustainability. By blending education with environmental stewardship, the Marathon Area Elementary School Outdoor Classroom serves as a model for future school projects.