Schoolyard Improvements

For nearly two decades, San Franciscans have voted to invest bond funds in creating outdoor learning and green spaces on school yards. Since 2003 over $20 Million in bond funds have been invested in greening SFUSD’s schoolyards. The result: 90% of our schools having some form of outdoor classroom, green infrastructure and/or nature play space. 

In Fall, 2021 SFUSD’s Board of Education voted to reallocate up to $14 Million in 2016 Bond Funds toward expanding outdoor learning opportunities on SFUSD schoolyards.  

Next Phase: A Focus on Increased Use, Equity, Climate Change,  Comfort & Safety 

SFUSD’s Bond & Facilities Staff is listening to stakeholders and school site leaders as we roll out this next phase of investment in our outdoor spaces.  Outdoor gathering spaces, shade,  landscaping and nature play opportunities are high priorities. The Bond Program’s Outdoor Learning design and construction projects will prioritize,  consider and address these priorities through an equity lens to ensure our students have equitable access to outdoor learning and play opportunities.

The Bond Program is critical to establishing green schoolyards at public schools all over San Francisco. However, once construction is completed, school communities and partners are essential to SUSTAINING and EXPANDING these spaces. 

Teachers, parents, garden educators, students and even some neighbors at a majority of SFUSD schools are engaged in caring for their green schoolyards. SFUSD’s Green Schoolyard Manager, Tamar Barlev, works closely with school sites to ensure critical information and resources are shared. 

Learn more about how to engage in sustaining or expanding your school’s green schoolyard.