Plans to develop an outdoor education center at Cole School began in 2003. This project was a grassroots effort led by then PTO President Ellen Nesbitt and a small group of dedicated parents, in conjunction with former principal Jack Shea. In 2006, the first outdoor lessons were held and in 2008 a formal Outdoor Classroom program began.
Funds were raised through grants, monetary and in-kind donations and additional Community Preservation funding approved at Town Meeting in 2005. Scores of volunteers, business, and organizations helped to construct and realize the Hatch Pond Education Center. Today, more than 140 Cole parents volunteer to run this program.