New playground equipment to be unveiled at Redwood Acres Public School

New playground equipment will be unveiled at Redwood Acres Public School on Thursday, May 12, 2011 during the school’s annual barbecue and fun fair. The official ribbon cutting ceremony at 6 pm will mark the culmination of many years of work by many people who turned their vision into reality.

“We welcome this opportunity to recognize the dedication and commitment of our parents, staff and community partners as well as provide a fun evening for our students,” says Principal Susan Cousineau. A barbecue will be held at 5:30 pm, followed by fun fair activities from 6 pm to 8 pm.

The rejuvenation of the Redwood Acres schoolyard began three years ago. Flower beds, a rainwater collection system and a vegetable garden were created with the help of parents, staff, students and Home Depot volunteers. The school’s annual vegetable harvest is donated to charities in the community.

Last year, Redwood Acres Public School was the proud recipient of funding from the VETAC/Ugliest Schoolyard Contest.  “With this funding, we reclaimed green space and created quiet areas,” says Principal Cousineau. “We also planted a variety of trees.” 

Over the past five years, the school raised more than $50,000 through Boardwalk Bingo. “We have purchased tables, soccer posts, benches and playground equipment,” says Principal Cousineau, “as we continue to create a warm, welcoming outdoor space for our students.”

Principal Cousineau thanked the many volunteers and community partners who worked together on the schoolyard project. “Our new playground structure and enhanced play area are welcome additions to our neighbourhood,” she says.  “This playground will continue to be a focal point of the community and a place for families to meet and interact. It will enhance all children’s growth and development in the community, promote physical activity for years to come, and be a tangible symbol of our commitment to the environment.”

Redwood Acres Public School is located at 4625 Carl Street in Hanmer. The school offers excellence in education to 300 children in Junior Kindergarten to Grade 5.

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Media Contact:
Susan Cousineau, Principal, Redwood Acres Public School,
Rainbow District School Board, 705-675-0202.