The Art of Play
2025 Winter Appeal
Building Spaces that Spark Joy and Connection
“Play is the work of the child.”
— Maria Montessori
At Ridgeline, our classrooms are carefully prepared learning environments designed to foster independence, curiosity, and care for the world around us. Students move freely, make choices, and take ownership of their learning—developing not just academic skills but also responsibility, empathy, and environmental stewardship.
These principles don’t stop at the classroom door. In Montessori education, the outdoor space is an extension of the indoor environment—a place where children move, explore, and engage with the natural world. Outdoor play is not “extra”; it’s essential to healthy development, social connection, and joyful learning.
Our Students Are Advocating
Our Principal’s Advisory Committee—composed of sixth through eighth-grade student leaders—meets regularly to interview their peers and share the feedback with the school board. Their message continues to be clear:
“We need a better playground!”
Many features, like the tetherball poles and basketball backboards, are worn out or need improvement. Students are asking for spaces that inspire active play and connection—nothing extravagant, just functional and fun.
Small Improvements, Big Impact
With your help, we can begin these improvements together:
Replace old basketball backboards and hoops to foster inclusive, active play.
Refurbish existing areas with tetherballs and refresh court and hopscotch lines.
Replenish playground balls and other equipment
These simple upgrades will create a more joyful and engaging outdoor space for all students—where laughter, teamwork, and creativity can flourish.
Our Goal: Raise $1,500 for Playground Improvements
As a publicly funded Oregon charter school, Ridgeline receives about 20% less per-pupil funding than district schools—and we’re responsible for purchasing and maintaining our entire facility ourselves. Your donation directly supports the improvements that make Ridgeline’s campus a vibrant, nurturing place for students to learn and grow.
Your contribution—whether $25, $100, or more—will help us begin this important work right away. Together, we can improve our outdoor environment to reflect the same care and intentionality found in our classrooms.
With Gratitude,
The Fundraising Committee
Tax ID# 93-1296441
Ridgeline is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which also makes your donation tax deductible!
Our vision is to empower creative learners to build community and thoughtfully shape the world through public Montessori education.