School councils at Stuart Baker and J.D. Hodgson elementary schools in Haliburton are going public with their plans to help fundraise for a new shared playground structure.
SBES council chair Lauren Adelson, whose sons, Henry, 7, and Cooper, 5, attend SBES said the existing equipment is not expected to last much longer and desperately needs replacing.
To that end, the school councils are hosting a spaghetti night fundraiser Feb. 26 and are looking for community support.
She said under the school fundraising guidelines set out by the Ministry of Education; schools are required to fundraise for the dismantling, purchase, installation and maintenance of playgrounds.
Adelson joined parent council when Henry started Junior Kindergarten. This is her third year on council, and first as chair. It’s been their main fundraiser for a few years now, for example, selling poinsettias and bags of soup mix, but members have realized they
need to do more.
“Playground equipment is more expensive than you might think. The cost of the newly-designed school yard has been estimated at $300,000, including removal of the existing structures, site preparation, installation, and purchase of inclusive and accessible equipment.”
She said previous SBES principal Lauren Alloway and JDH principal David Waito had presented a rough plan to parent councils in the past. They said the project would be three phases: the first, estimated at $200,000, for a Grade 1 to 8 play structure; the second phase for a kindergarten climbing structure; and the third for soccer nets for soccer fields. They are fundraising for the first phase.
The first big community fundraising event – Pasta for Playground – which they hope to hold annually, will be held at Haliburton
Highlands Secondary School cafeteria, with Darla Searle’s hospitality class preparing the meal. Lions Club members are lending
a hand. There will also be music, games, a silent auction, and raffle.
“We are reaching out to the community for donations to help facilitate this exciting event that will hopefully be a new way for our community to gather and enjoy an evening together. We are collecting auction and raffle items, food, disposable plates, cutlery, napkins and cups. Every little bit helps. If you own a local business, we are welcoming gift cards, services and products for our auction and raffle.
“Playing outside is a critical part of our children’s physical, social and emotional development. It promotes curiosity, creativity and critical thinking. Studies have found that children who spend more time playing outdoors have improved learning outcomes and more positive behavior,” Adelson said on behalf of parent council representatives.
Adelson added people can donate money on their website and through Canada Helps or drop a cheque at the schools.
People can email SBES.school.council@gmail.com or contact Adelson at 705-854
0054
