Ruth King elementary school in Langford is in need of a new playground for its younger students, and the Parent Advisory Council (PAC) is asking for the community’s help to make that happen.
“The playground is really approaching the end of its useful life and we’re really excited to see it get replaced,” said Morgan Evans, member of the PAC playground committee.
Ruth King has two playgrounds, one the older students tend to use, and another, the one needing replacement, the younger students play on. StrongStart early learning program students, up to five years old, also use the equipment, as does the community in general.
Two designs from two playground companies are finalists for the playground. Both are space rocket themed. The two designed were shown to students at a meet-the-teacher event, and Evans said they were pretty excited about it.
“Today’s playground equipment is meant to help develop skill sets, help develop coordination and encourage socialization,” said Evans. “There’s a lot of thought and effort that goes into these new structures.”
The school district and school administrators are supportive of the upgrade but funding has to come from outside sources. The district will provide ground cover and support the project as it can.
Other improvements to the area, such as fixing basketball nets and installing picnic tables are also in the plans.
There is no set price for a new playground and what equipment is finally purchased will depend on how much money is raised. The baseline goal is to raise $50,000, but more would be ideal, to cover the cost of the equipment and its installation.
An online auction is up and running, with many items donated by local businesses available to bid on. Donations from local businesses to add to the auction are still gratefully accepted, as are cash donations. Donors who give $1,000 or more will be honoured on a brass plaque to be placed at the playground.
Other fundraising events are in the works including potentially a bottle drive and a car wash.
To view the auction visit www.ruthkingauction.com. The auction runs until Nov. 16.
kwells@goldstreamgazette.com