GREEN BAY, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – Jackson Elementary School held a ribbon cutting on Wednesday for its new inclusive playground, the first in the Green Bay Area Public School District (GBAPS).
Students and their families, along with leaders from the school and the district, were in attendance at the celebration.
GBAPS says the new playground is compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), ensuring Jackson students of all abilities will be able to play there.
“In the Green Bay Area Public Schools, we have the honor and the privilege of serving children of all abilities. As we replace playgrounds in the district, we are committed to ensuring access for all students,” said Superintendent Dr. Claude Tiller.
Jackson Elementary Principal Kate Dolan emphasized how the school’s playground is used by not only Jackson students and families, but also neighboring residents.
“We’re excited to begin the new school year and are immensely grateful to the Board of Education, district leadership, and the community for their continued support to make today possible.”
According to the National Program for Playground Safety, an inclusive playground “offers a range of play experiences to children of varying abilities.”
It must include an accessible path from the building or parking lot to the edge of the play area, as well as an accessible path from the edge of the play area to the playground equipment.
Additionally, the playground’s surfacing must be compliant with firmness and stability standards allowing safe access for wheelchairs, canes, crutches, walkers, and strollers.
ADA-compliant playgrounds allow for a child to access the equipment by either moving from their mobility device onto the playground structure using a transfer station, or by accessing the equipment in their mobility device using a ramp.
“The ability to join your peers and play is so important for child development,” said Wendy Salentine, a special education teacher. “On our playgrounds, friendships are made, social skills are strengthened, and a sense of belonging is fostered.”
Jackson Elementary’s new playground was one of the many projects included in the GBAPS referendum that passed in November 2022.
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