The plans call for school age and preschool age playground equipment, a basketball court/blacktop area, and a covered structure to be installed near the existing school ball fields. The projected cost for the playground is $150,000, which includes equipment purchase and transportation, moderate site work, and initial engineering services. It assumes the majority of the labor will be donated. The figure does not include costs to ensure the site is accessible; these costs cannot yet be determined.
Thanks to the enthusiasm and generous support of district families and area businesses, the fundraising efforts have been successful. To date, $132,000 toward the $150,000 goal has been raised. Personal donations, penny collections, a clothing drive, flower sales, bake sales, a golf outing, a portion of the proceeds from the Blues Fest, and more have combined to help us close in on our goal. Our accomplishments so far could not have been possible without the efforts of the LTEF board and volunteers, and the members of the playground committee. Fundraising will continue this year to help us reach our goal, and new volunteers are always welcome. To join, please contact chairperson Collette Evanko at cpevanko@comcast.net.
Once the playground project at Valley View has been completed, efforts will begin to design and install age-appropriate fitness and recreational amenities at Woodglen School, ensuring all district children have opportunities for free play. Besides helping maintain physical health, free play during the school day helps children build social and problem-solving skills as well as reduce stress. It is an important part of our children’s complete education. The LTEF and its playground committee are pleased to play a role in raising the funds to make outdoor play an integral and enjoyable part of our children’s school experience.
Take a moment to view the plans for the 2 play areas that we are working to provide to the school:
