Fun on the Playground: Photo submitted by Ed Pilegard
Playground Equipment Project
Have you ever thought about all the things a PTA does for a school? Most people aren’t aware of the special activities they sponsor or items they purchase through fundraisers. Each year PTAs across the country meet to discuss projects for the coming school year. What’s really neat is many of these projects will be enjoyed by students for years to come.
Last year, an elementary school PTA in my neighborhood made the decision to buy playground equipment. Researching to find the equipment that would best fit their school’s needs, they discovered in the process that lack of exercise contributes to obesity and diabetes in children. This knowledge inspired the PTA to purchase equipment that would motivate as well as excite children to exercise, thus building healthy habits for the rest of their lives.
You might think buying playground equipment is not a big deal, but for a small school it is. Schools having small enrollments don’t get the funding larger schools do to purchase big ticket items. Funds are based on the number of students, so a smaller school gets less money and has to look for other ways to purchase items.
Teachers, parents, staff and students at the school willingly supported activities and events to raise the $10,000 necessary for a matching funds grant. Some of the events and activities held were face painting, movie night, fall festival and a much anticipated fun night. One of the activities on fun night was throwing wet sponges at teachers. None of the teachers seemed to mind because it was for a good cause.
Kindergarten through fifth grade students have been playing, climbing, swinging and having a grand time on the new playground equipment. Here are some of their comments:
Miranda: “We finally have a big slide to go down. Can we have one on the other playground, too?”
Justin: “It’s the coolest thing out here.”
Ben: “My favorite part is the rock climbing steps.”
Hunter: “I like the tunnel the best.”
Mason: “I like the whole thing.”
Noah: “I want to play on it every day.”
Katelyn: “It’s so much fun! Can we come back and play after school?”
The next time your local PTA asks for a donation of time or money, step up and give generously. The benefits will be enjoyed for years to come.
If you know of a PTA in your neighborhood that went above and beyond, I’d like to hear from you.
If you can’t leave a comment, send me an email at dicysm@yahoo.com or message on Facebook.
Thanks,
Dicy
http://www.dicymcculloughbooks.com
http://www.dicymcculloughbooks.com/blog
Definitely always supported the local PTA when the kids were in school. Great organization that is too often neglected! Glad to read such a supportive post:>)