GREATER PLAYGROUND
OPPORTUNITIES
Although we have talked about
the changes to the playground for quite some time, it has finally happened.
If you have seen the "new" playground space recently, I'm sure that the changes
were quite evident! Phase one of the playground expansion occurred this year
when a number of pine trees were cut.
The tree cutting is advantageous
for a number of reasons:
- The playground was largely
unusable during the cold season. There was an unusual amount of shade on the
playground, which kept the sun off the equipment and allowed ice to form and
stay much of the winter.
- The atmosphere on the playground
is much more open and bright. For the first time, the stone walls around the
property can be seen. In fact, the beauty that existed before has been altered
to reveal a different type of beauty.
- We have diminished the risk
of children being hurt from the potential of falling pine trees and their
branches.
- The cutting allows us more
space to create greater play opportunities for kids and their families at
non-school times.
Of course, there is a larger plan beyond cutting trees. Soon after I became
Principal four years ago, I recognized, along with staff and parents,
the inadequacy of the playground, especially in terms of appropriate play
options for students. About two years ago, we began a new Playground Committee
made up of HMS staff, District personnel, and community members, including
participation from PTA. The group was chaired by Beth Henderson, our P.E.
teacher and champion of an improved playground for many years. Over time,
we developed a plan for the playground which includes expanding the space
to allow a larger soccer field, the construction of a basketball court, a
gazebo for an outdoor science classroom, a walking trail around the playground,
and other ideas.
We developed a written report, received approval from the School Board,
utilized the services of a consultant and hired a company to cut the trees.
We have also received some sizable monetary donations for the Playground
plan. In addition, we are working closely with the Maple Street School Playground
Committee in terms of fundraising as they are also looking to improve their
playground opportunties.
We welcome suggestions for the future development of the playground. Feel
free to call or email me
or Beth Henderson at bhenderson@hopkintonschools.org
-Bill Carozza