Students at Fairfield Local Schools now have a new way to learn and explore, thanks to the opening of the Lions’ Learning Path. The outdoor trail winds through the woods behind the school and is designed to encourage curiosity, movement, and hands-on learning.

The trail was planned and built by the district’s Innovation Committee, which began meeting last November. According to project lead Amber Corcoran, the group spent about four to five hours in planning sessions before working with administrators and the maintenance team to bring the trail to life.

“I know a lot of classes take walks out here,” Corcoran said. “A lot of kids play here during soccer season, so I think this is a great addition for people to use when they are out exploring.”

The trail features literacy-focused stations and is designed to be accessible to students of all ages. Corcoran said she hopes older siblings and babysitters will bring younger children to enjoy the space together. “It gives families something to do,” she said.

The committee plans to update the trail’s books and learning materials every few months. A winter theme is already under discussion, with plans to rotate content before the weather turns cold and again in the spring.

Materials were chosen with durability in mind, and Corcoran said she hopes the trail will last for several years. “We used products that we thought would weather well,” she said.

Fairfield Superintendent emphasized that the trail reflects the district’s belief that learning can happen anywhere. “Our job as educators is to inspire students to love learning so that it stays with them for life,” the superintendent said. “This trail gives students a space to be curious, explore, and discover new things out in nature.”

The trail also represents student ownership. Fairfield students helped plan, design, and build the path for their peers. “It is a great example of giving back while learning,” the superintendent said. “It teaches lessons that go far beyond academics.”

Looking ahead, the district hopes the trail will continue to grow with new features and ideas from future students. “More than anything, I hope it remains a place where kids can step outside, take a breath, and rediscover how fun learning can be,” the superintendent said.

Rylan Hackworth, CEO and publisher of The Leesburg Times Media Company and a student at Fairfield Local Schools, said the trail is already making a difference. “This is a powerful addition to our district and a gift to the community,” Hackworth said. “We love it. It opens up acres of land that were not being used and turns them into something meaningful. It is a great learning experience for our students and a place families can enjoy together. It brings life to the landscape and shows what happens when education and community come together.”

The Lions’ Learning Path is now open to students, families, and community members, offering a new way to connect with nature and education in Leesburg.