Students at Mac Williams Middle School are spending more time outdoors this school year, thanks to a new open-air classroom that is already being incorporated into daily instruction across multiple grade levels.
The outdoor classroom opened in September through a partnership with Chemours Fayetteville Works and was designed to support hands-on learning in subjects focusing on science and agriculture.
Chemours is a global chemical company with manufacturing operations in Cumberland County and a long-standing presence in the Fayetteville area.
Since the ribbon-cutting, school leaders say the space has evolved into a flexible learning environment used for everything from English language arts discussions to small-group instruction and student incentives.
“Since the opening in September, the outdoor classroom has been actively used by multiple grade levels and content areas throughout the school day,” Principal Anita McLaughlin said in a statement to CityView. “Teachers have incorporated the space for core instruction, elective activities, and small-group work.”
“The outdoor classroom provides a space for learning to take place in the form of enrichment, intervention, and assists in the overall social-emotional learning of students,” McLaughlin said.
The open-air classroom includes seating and work areas and is expected to serve more than 1,000 students annually. The project is part of Chemours’ ChemFEST program—short for Chemours Future of Engineering, Science, Trades, and Technology—which focuses on expanding access to hands-on science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) learning opportunities for students.
At the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Seth Bailey, plant manager for Chemours Fayetteville Works, described the project as an investment in student curiosity and future career pathways.
“This outdoor classroom is more than just a space—it’s a symbol of our commitment to giving every student access to creative, hands-on learning experiences,” Bailey said.
Early feedback from both students and teachers has been positive, according to school leaders.
“Teachers have shared that the outdoor classroom increases student engagement and excitement,” McLaughlin said. “Students truly enjoy the opportunity to go outside to get the fresh air and have a notion to feel more relaxed while learning.”
Chemours’ involvement extends beyond funding and construction. According to Chris Hickey, communications manager for Chemours, the company also helped the school acquire Paxton Patterson lab modules in subjects such as alternative energy, ecology, and engineering.
Chemours employees volunteer at the school, bringing real-world STEM experience into classrooms.
The partnership began in 2023 and builds on earlier collaborations that expanded STEM-based lab modules across all grade levels at Mac Williams Middle School.
Dr. Lindsay Whitley, associate superintendent of Cumberland County Schools Communications and Community Engagement, said partnerships with private companies are structured to align with district priorities and maintain instructional independence.
“Each year, we begin with a school-based needs assessment connected to School Improvement Plans,” Whitley said. “Educators and school leaders guide how resources, volunteers, and enrichment supports are used so they complement instruction and support high-quality learning.”
While the district is encouraged by early results at Mac Williams, officials say similar partnerships are considered on a school-by-school basis.
“This collaboration has been very encouraging,” Whitley said. “We are always interested in partnerships that strengthen instruction and boost engagement, where they align with a school’s goals.”
To contact education reporter Dasia Williams, email dwilliams@cityviewnc.com.
