Paper leaves for outdoor space

Called the Tree of Giving, students are selling paper leaves for $10 each to support the playground improvement project. Those who purchase a paper leaf can decorate however they want, whether that means simply scribbling a name on it or creating something more elaborate. The leaves will be added to a tree near the school’s office as a means of showing students how much support they have for the project.

The playground is expected to cost about $70,000, says Orléans Wood School Improvement Project member Pam Hawley, adding that $20,000 has already been raised. The school also received over 20 new trees last year from the city’s TREE program.

The playground is divided into three distinct areas. The first area focuses on the senses and imagination while the second incorporates climbing. The third, meanwhile, provides a sort of activity trail for youth.

Since the project is divided, it can be built in phases if needed. Hawley says work on the first phase will “for sure” start this summer.

The move to create a fun space for students started about a year ago when a group of parents decided they wanted to improve the playground. Since the children will ultimately be using whatever improvements are implemented, parents decided to get their input. A student survey was conducted last winter and some pupils even drew up their own plans. The current design is based on that feedback.

While the school will switch to a K-3 model next school year, principal Carmon Wood says the playground will still be important for junior students who live in the community.

The school board will probably give some money to the project, she continues, but the bulk of the funds will come from grants, parents and the school council.

The school has applied to all the grants this project qualifies for, Hawley says.

With the Tree of Giving already running, the school will host a family dance on Feb. 11 to raise even more funds for the project. Those from neighbouring Terry Fox Elementary School, which will host the junior program next year, have been invited to the event. Hawley says the fundraising dance is just the start of joint activities between the two schools.