The St. James R-1 School District was awarded $17,263 from the Missouri Department of Natural Resources as part of the 2025 Non-playground Scrap Tire Grant.

The district will use the grant to fund the development of outdoor learning environments that provide opportunities with students to collaborate, interact and strengthen their social and emotional development.

“We were very excited to receive the Non-playground Scrap Tire Grant. This is part of a plan that the district has been working on to improve outdoor spaces to provide locations for learning and collaboration,” said Assistant Superintendent Dr. April Williams.

A new learning area will be located near the Tiger Trail sidewalk project, and the district hopes to create an additional space for students and community members to connect and learn. Buddy benches will be introduced to provide a place where students can make friends.

With the grant, the district will install 11 picnic tables to create two outdoor learning spaces at Lucy Wortham James Elementary and place eight park benches around the campus.

The district is committed to creating engaging spaces that enhance learning and promote meaningful relationships among students, staff and community.