The outdoor play space at Noel Booth Elementary is set for an exciting refresh.
Last month, the Ministry of Education and Child Care announced that Noel Booth Elementary would receive $200,00 in funding for a new accessible playground. The school was one of 25 across the province to receive funding.
Currently, Noel Booth has two playgrounds; the playground adjacent to community tennis courts will remain, and the playground behind the school will be removed and replaced.
"We are thrilled to receive this support from the Province to build a new playground. We look forward to talking to students and staff, working with them to get ideas on elements that make an outdoor play space that everyone can access," said principal Jason Malo.
"Having worked in many elementary schools, I know slides, climbing walls, and modern roundabout structures are quite popular with the students. It will be good for us to consult with the students as they are the experts."
There is currently no timeline set for the project. Consultation and planning will come in the weeks ahead.
"We are in the very early stages of the project, and the plan is to replace the old playground behind the school," said Mel Cervantes, Manager of Facilities Information, Security and Grounds for the District.
"The school will work with the District to come up with a list of needs with a focus on accessibility and inclusivity. Once that is done, we will begin the process to find a company to design the new playground," explained Cervantes.
Malo was excited to get the project underway, and see a playground installed that is safe, fun and accessible for all students.
"I know the students and members of the community will benefit for many years to come," he said.
