Exploring the Future of Outdoor Learning at Maxfield
- Oct 14
- 1 min read
10/14/2025
This month, the Hollyhock team had the opportunity to tour the inspiring Maxfield Community Schoolyard Project alongside landscape architect and team intern Ben Waldo. Located in Saint Paul’s historically Black Rondo neighborhood, Maxfield Elementary is one of five schools across Minnesota selected by the Trust for Public Land for a transformative redesign through the Minnesota Community Schoolyards initiative.
Ben Waldo, a lead designer on the project and faculty member at the University of Minnesota, guided the group through the evolving 2.4-acre outdoor space. In collaboration with Saint Paul Public Schools and local community members, the Trust is reimagining the schoolyard as a vibrant blend of nature trails, pollinator gardens, play areas, and gathering spaces designed to serve both students and neighbors.
Highlights from this year’s development include the installation of a water runoff collection tank, expansive butterfly and pollinator plantings. Next year's plans include adding a microforest to the grounds. The Hollyhock team left inspired by the vision and progress unfolding at Maxfield.
