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Sustainability and Creativity at Larry C. Kennedy School

Sustainability and Creativity at Larry C. Kennedy School

The new Larry C. Kennedy School is redefining education through its innovative outdoor learning model, centered on student engagement, environmental stewardship, and community collaboration. Designed to inspire curiosity and creativity, the school’s educational philosophy blends hands-on learning with Arizona’s curriculum standards, providing students with opportunities to explore core subjects like science, math, and literature in dynamic outdoor settings. Through this approach, Kennedy School supports not just academic growth, but also students’ well-being with fresh air, physical activity, and mindfulness experiences.

At the heart of the campus is a one-of-a-kind environment featuring gardens, nature trails, open fields, and now the newly opened tree house—already a favorite among students. Outdoor classrooms allow for immersive, interactive instruction where children can observe plants, insects, and wildlife up close, fostering a lifelong connection with nature. Project-Based Learning (PBL) is central to the curriculum, with students actively engaging in projects such as tree planting, recycling initiatives, and water conservation efforts, developing both critical thinking skills and environmental responsibility.

This visionary approach has earned the school notable recognition, including being named the K-12 Education Project of the Year by the Real Estate and Development Awards. The honor celebrates the collaborative effort between students and architects in shaping a campus that reflects the school’s mission of sustainable, experiential education. Events like Earth Day at Kennedy further highlight the school’s commitment, as students participated in creative, eco-friendly activities like making native seed balls to plant wildflowers across the grounds.

Enrollment for the 2025–2026 school year is now open. Families interested in joining the Kennedy community can enroll online or visit the school at 2702 E. Osborn Rd. in Phoenix. For questions or more information call (602) 381-6180.