September 26, 2024

AHBL interviews Jane Tesner Kleiner

Tesner Kleiner

We interviewed Jane Tesner Kleiner, PLA, and owner of Nature + Play Designs, an expert in the Green Schoolyards movement.

What has changed in the industry over the past five years or so?

The roles for design professionals for Campus Planning & Design has changed significantly. For every project, campus planning and design needs to respond to the needs of all users, as schools tend to serve multiple goals for the community.

The role of the Green Schoolyards movement really took off during COVID as schools looked to continue education in safe environments, including outdoor classrooms. Along similar timelines, heightened awareness of DEIA (diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility) as well as Climate Responsive Landscapes, opened the door to create spaces that everyone can access safely and reduce environmental impacts. Ongoing research shows the benefit of connecting people with nature. Even views of nature from school windows have proven benefits, such as stress reduction and improved academic performance.

What inspires you to continue to do what you do?

I have been collaborating with schools and school districts for over 25 years to rethink campus layouts and specific feature designs that support healthy living and learning both in the classroom and during out-of-school time. All you have to do is show up at recess or break time and talk to staff, teachers, and students to see how excited they get when everyone can have a diversity of play experiences and learning opportunities.

Research suggests that schools are the second most frequented space for kids, after their homes. One of my goals is to support student and staff health and well-being through inviting, safe, beautiful and nurturing environments. In neighborhoods where kids have little to no access to yards, parks, or natural areas, school play areas become a cornerstone of their day-to-day nature connections.

How do you see the integration of STEAM into the physical landscape designs?

The ecologist side of me is excited to introduce kids to nature using layers of native plantings and versatile gardens where they can dig, explore, and experiment with their ideas.

In Washington state, there are grants for Outdoor Learning, Outdoor School, and community partners to help students learn outside. Even a five-minute nature observation walk can benefit students. All curricula, including STEAM, can be taught outdoors if the landscapes are designed to inspire, and if staff and students can easily use the spaces to explore together.

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