In the spring of 2018, Laurie Brown, mother of John Peter “JP” Handley-Greaves '12, approached us about a project that would serve two purposes. She wanted to give Upland something that would enhance our Chester County campus with a unique educational experience for students. The gift would also honor her son, who enjoyed his outdoor learning experiences at Upland more than any other school he attended.
JP's Treehouse does just that. It is in perfect keeping with both the educational approach at Upland and the person whom it honors. JP Handley-Greaves was a boy who loved the outdoors. When he first visited Upland as a potential lower schooler, it was a snowy winter day. He noticed the kids here were outdoors sledding. This approach was different than the other schools he visited where children were indoors, hiding from the weather.
This structure was about a year in the making. And though the physical structure is complete, JP's Treehouse is not yet finished. It will be up to the imaginations of our students and teachers to put finishing touches on this site.
JP's Treehouse sits adjacent to another structure that has transformed our campus. The Kleberg IDEA Center has evolved into a vibrant and dynamic learning site. So too has JP‘s treehouse. It is another transformational element of our campus that has furthered our outstanding educational programs. JP's Treehouse inspires students and teachers to dream and create.