PALMERSTON – Palmerston Public School (PPS) has had a long-standing vision of a new playground for its school yard. The old playground was in need of an upgrade.
Over the course of the last decade, the PPS Parent Council had been raising funds to build a new playground at the school.
PPS council chair Sheri Schiestel told the Community News in an email that each time an inspection was done on the previous playground, some of the money being raised would have to be put into repairs.
“Parent council felt the time had come to stop putting a ‘fresh coat of paint’ on the creative and actually purchase a new creative,” stated Schiestel.
“The creative” is what the kids at PPS have been calling the playground for decades.
It was mentioned too that funding for a new playground is “above and beyond” the regular commitments of funding for the Upper Grand District School Board.
This leaves groups such as parent council to conduct the fundraising.
Before the COVID-19 pandemic took hold of the globe, the PPS council received three quotes for the new playground.
With input from students at PPS, they were able to choose a play structure to focus on.
The pandemic caused a pause in fundraising efforts, and because of this, the cost for materials increased by approximately $20,000, according to Schiestel.
However, last year parent council started fundraising once again with its “Let’s Band Together” benefit concert.
The concert featured performances by local performers and also had a raffle draw.
“The support and donations for this concert from everyone was amazing,” Schiestel stated.
“We also received many donations from individuals, businesses and local organizations to help us reach our target.”
‘Sincere gratitude’
The playground was installed before the current school year began in September.
“To all who made this playground fundraiser a success, we extend our sincerest thanks and gratitude,” stated parent council officials in a recent thank-you letter.
“The smiles on the faces of the children today are a testament to your kindness and dedication.”
