Goodrich -Monday recess at Reid Elementary was a celebration for students who couldn’t wait for their new playground to open.
‘Reid’s Play Village? is the school’s new multi-colored playscape.
With its bridges, gazebos, slides, and rock-climbing walls, the expansive play area has become a magnet for children not only at recess time, but in the after-school hours, said mom Karen Melton.
School officials and the Goodrich Community Playground Committee gathered students Monday morning for a double ribbon-cutting ceremony, headed up by playground visionary Joy Moll, who began researching the possibility of a new playscape in 2002 after safety issues arose about the previous playground.
Although some felt the former playground was sufficient, Moll compared its possible safety hazards to an outdated crib.
‘It’s possible that my infant would never injure himself or herself, but as a parent, knowing there were now better and safer options, I would not settle for less than the best,? said Moll in her dedication speech.
Along with Moll, the original playground committee included Veronica Davis, Karen Eickhoff, Lisa Holbrook, and Mary Everhart, who unveiled a sign thanking sponsors.
The group was eventually joined by chair Suzanne Taylor, along with approximately 14 other playground supporters, who helped organize fund-raisers such as pop can drives, brick sales, fun walks, bake sales, ladies? teas, bingo events, a golf outing, and the well-received spring dance and auction. In addition, the committee solicited funds from businesses.
In the two years since the effort took off, the committee has raised nearly $80,000 through fund-raisers and contributions, and received an additional $80,000 from the Goodrich Board of Education.
Last weekend, parents and community supporters turned out to put up the new play equipment.
Student Emily Tippen, who named the playground, cut the red ribbon during the ceremony, signaling the opening of the new playground.
Cheeks rosy with fresh air, the delight on children’s faces is evidence of their appreciation.
‘Everyone that spent any amount of time on Reid’s playground has a part in all of these smiles we see this morning,? said Taylor.
Oaktree’s ‘Tree House? playground is scheduled to be built Oct. 21 through 24.
Want to help?
Call Joy Moll at (810) 636-2379 or Suzanne Taylor at (810) 636-7502.