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\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tOne key organizer said the project — which now includes 24 trees — will enhance the outdoor, educational experience for students.<\/p>\n
“It’s wonderful. Last year, on the first day after some trees were planted, I went for a walk and saw an art class painting them,” said Faith Roper, playground chair of the Island Lakes Parent Advisory Council.<\/p>\n
“Before, there was no shade whatsoever for the kids and now there is. The plan has been to plant strong, durable trees to provide much-needed shade and a place for the kids to gather.”<\/p>\n
“Next school year, the plan is to put some benches in place, so they have somewhere to sit and chat,” she added.<\/p>\n
Roper noted the trees at the front of the school have been planted in a circular way to potentially accommodate the school’s ultimate playground vision — an outdoor classroom.<\/p>\n
“Our goal in the future is to have a place to attract birds, butterflies and ladybugs and provide a great educational experience,” she said.<\/p>\n
Roper’s son, Andrew, 13, said the project has already enhanced his outdoor experience — and helped cool his heels.<\/p>\n
“We’re trying to make the park a much better place and more aesthetically-pleasing,” he said. “There’s definitely more shade now, which helps when it’s really hot and humid outside.”<\/p>\n
Principal Darcy Cormack said the growth of the playground project showcases the strength of the school’s community.<\/p>\n
“This truly is a community school, as the community uses the playground outside of school hours,” she said, noting the fundraising drive has included numerous hot lunches — such as pizza — for the students.<\/p>\n
Cormack said the project will provide educational opportunities for the students, noting a kindergarten class recently did a study about the seasonal growing cycle of trees, focusing on roots.<\/p>\n