MES playground inches toward reality
Staff writer
A new playground at Marion Elementary School is moving closer to reality after the school board voted Monday to order playground equipment.
Elementary principal Justin Wasmuth told the board the estimated cost of equipment, including shipping, is $59,000. So far, $20,000 has been raised.
The school was approved for a grant that will pay half the cost of playground equipment, but not shipping costs.
Wasmuth said the playground will be more accessible for children with disabilities, and will include a zero-entry merry-go-round to accommodate students with physical challenges, including those in wheelchairs.
Wasmuth said the school is considering installing musical instruments that wrap around the playground entry area.
“We have to order this prior to the next board meeting to get the grant,” Superintendent Lee Leiker told board members.
Wasmuth said the school is still looking at whether to use rubber strips or gravel under the equipment. The area for special equipment will need a smoother surface, Wasmuth said.
“It looks like we’ll have to put a little concrete pavement to the special equipment,” Wasmuth said.
In other business, the board approved a steak dinner fundraiser, a bus use request from Women’s Encounter, and hiring Steven Smith as bus driver and custodian.