The El Monte City School District is transforming traditional asphalt schoolyards into shaded, garden-filled learning environments for students across El Monte, California. By removing hardscape and planting trees and native gardens, we are creating cooler, more inviting spaces that support outdoor learning, healthier play, and stronger connection to nature. This work is happening at three elementary campuses: Cortada, Gidley, and Shirpser.
Every schoolyard will receive four key improvements designed around student well-being and environmental education.
New trees and seating in the parent waiting area, giving families a calm and shaded place to gather.
Five outdoor classrooms per campus surrounded by native plants and stormwater gardens that double as living lessons.
Asphalt replaced with plants, trees, and shaded gathering areas so kids can play and learn comfortably all year.
Tree-lined paths circling each play field for walking, active learning, and after-school community use.
The $5.94 million project is funded by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection through its Green Schoolyards Program. Cortada was completed in spring 2026. Construction at Gidley and Shirpser is underway, with substantial completion expected in 2026.
Each campus has its own design, student community, and timeline. Explore what is happening at each school.
Curious what is being built? Each schoolyard has its own design, shaped by students, families, and school staff. Take a look at the full plans for Cortada, Shirpser, and Gidley.
Full design plans for all three schoolyards, with labeled features and site maps.
The Living Schoolyards project is made possible by a coalition of partners working together to bring greener campuses to El Monte.
Lead agency. Operates Cortada, Gidley, and Shirpser elementary schools.
Community engagement and project communications for the San Gabriel Valley.
Project management and community design facilitation across all three campuses.
Landscape architecture and schoolyard design for each campus.
Funded by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CalFire) through its Green Schoolyards Program.
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