Playground Update
I am happy to report that both tire swings in the front playground are fully operational now after being taken away for repair the week before last. Both were reinstalled on Thursday, September 26 with new swivel components. Also, you may have noticed the teeter totter unit is missing. This item was deemed too dangerous as it was discovered, when requesting new bumpers, that the bolt that holds the rubber bumper in place could no longer be reattached. My understanding is that these rubber bumpers can no longer be replaced or repaired. It is always sad when a favourite piece of playground equipment is retired.
Related to the front playground, I shared with PAC that parent volunteers have been approved to repaint the blue and pink on our front playground. It was brought to my attention in June that this was a priority and was originally painted as a memorial project. This, as well as other playground fundraising efforts, will be discussed at the next PAC meeting on Wednesday, October 9th. If you are interested in helping with this project, please contact Julie 250-306-2614.
On Friday, September 27, the broken metal climbing apparatus, in the back of the school, was removed. Also, at the students’ request, swings were raised at the back swing set. Soon the metal swing set (with no swings) will be removed as well. The removal of playground items was announced to students and staff during the morning announcements at the end of last week. In case you were not aware, the removal of these items are because there is no border and fall protection, a newer requirement since these were installed. My understanding is that operations will keep the swing set and will plan to reinstall (with swings) once it is our turn to receive a playground improvement project (funded by the Ministry of Education and Child Care). At the moment, we are third on the list, which means about 3 – 4 years waiting time, hopefully sooner.
Playground improvement is also a priority for our PAC who will engage in fundraising efforts specifically for playground improvements. Between our PAC’s efforts and the ministry funding we should have a significant allotment that we can dedicate to improved playground and playground additions/structures.