Kaawaate East City Public School Launches Fundraiser of $200,000 For Accessible Playground

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Kaawaate East City Public School (KECPS) launched a campaign seeking the public’s help to raise $200,000 for an accessible playground for roughly 800 students from the East City of Peterborough and surrounding areas.

pHOTO courtesy of Kaawaate East City Public School.

The school opened in September 2021 but without a playground since the Ministry of Education does not fund that equipment according to KECPS.

The school has to raise funds for the physical play structure(s), installation costs, ground surfacing and ongoing maintenance.

A common concern for the parents is the inclusion of an accessible playground that caters to all students including those with special mobility and sensory needs as stated in a press release.

The KECPS yard is adjacent to a forest and offers a view from the hill overlooking the Trent-Severn Waterway.

“I was surprised and disappointed to learn when the Ministry of Education builds and opens a new elementary school, its funding doesn’t include the school playground,” said Tara Joyce, KECPS Playground Committee parent member. “A playground for the students seems critical to the healthy functioning of any elementary school.”

“With our student body and new building already overcrowded in its third year of existence, creating more interactive spaces outdoors for our students is critically needed and will have a long-term positive impact on their learning and growth,” said Robin Koshurba, KECPS Playground Committee member.

The Committee is asking local businesses and organizations, families and any interested donors to help meet their fundraising goal.

The school is already facing overcrowding issues in its third year of operation and a playground is essential for shaping the future of everyone involved according to KECPS.

Donations can be made online via School Cash Online or by cash or cheque.

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