The Accessible Outdoor Learning Center has been a long lasting project spanning over five years with the dedication of NCSU’s architecture students in the Freedom By Design organization. The students designed, fundraised, created construction documents, and helped build and install equipment. With the support and input from an advising architect & general contractor, GMS staff, GMS students, the Governor Morehead Foundation and with generous contributions from the community, they were able to actualize this astounding project.

There were many considerations and techniques created to best forge this design. Safety precautions, sensory equipment, color theory/directory, texture differentials for wayfinding, and more were all implemented across the years of design and testing.

Remarks from NCSU FBD Student Directors

“Today, we are filled with immense pride and gratitude as we celebrate a remarkable achievement. Over the past five-plus years, the architecture students of NCSU’s Freedom By Design have demonstrated extraordinary dedication, compassion, and creativity as they embarked on a journey to design, fundraise, and build the Accessible Outdoor Learning Center.
This project was born out of a simple yet powerful idea: to create a space where children of all ages, regardless of their circumstances, can come together, play, learn, and experience the joy of childhood. Freedom By Design recognized the need for inclusivity and accessibility in our community and turned it into reality.
From the initial design phase to the final construction, NCSU students poured their hearts and souls into every aspect of this project. We collaborated with experts such as GMS Orientation and Mobility Teachers William Tubilleja and Ivan Weiscott, Principal Matt Mescal, School Director Melvin Diggs, Architect Andy Osterlund, Logan McClure of McClure & Associates, NCSU Faculty Advisor Bryan Bell, and many more and incorporated their feedback along the way to ensure that the playground would meet the diverse needs of all GMS children.
But FBD’s dedication didn’t stop there. The students also took on the formidable task of fundraising to bring this project to fruition. Through bake sales, elevator pitches, GoFundMe, giving presentations around town, and community events, we rallied support from friends, family, and local businesses, demonstrating the power of collective action and community.
And today, as we unveil this beautiful playground, we bear witness to the transformative impact of their efforts. This is more than just a playground; it is a symbol of inclusivity, empowerment, and hope. It is a testament to what can be achieved when we come together with a shared purpose and a commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.
But our work is far from over. As we celebrate this milestone, let us also recommit ourselves to the principles of inclusivity and accessibility in all aspects of our community. Let us continue to advocate for those whose voices are often unheard and to build a world where everyone, regardless of their abilities, can thrive and succeed.
In closing, we want to extend our heartfelt thanks to all the students, teachers, parents, and community members who contributed to this project. Your passion, dedication, and generosity have truly made a difference in the lives of countless children. Together, we have built more than just a playground; we have built a brighter, more inclusive future for all.“
– Brooklyn Scotto & Katherine Brooks (FBD Student Directors 2021-2023/2023-2034)