A Village Builds a Playground at Squadron Line

Submitted release 

An elementary school playground is a place where children learn how to make friends, get the exercise they need to stay healthy, and just take a break from the school day. On Tuesday, Oct. 29, kindergartners and first graders at Simsbury's Squadron Line School attended a ribbon-cutting ceremony for their brand new playground--built by a generous community.

The campaign to replace Squadron Line's rear playground, used for the lower grades, began in November 2012. The vision, spearheaded by Lisa Wilcox, was to take previously underutilized space and turn it into an area for inclusive and creative play. During the school year, it could be used as an “outdoor classroom” of sorts; after school and during the summer, it would provide a place for the children in the community to explore and play.

A committee of PTO volunteers, led by PTO President Christie Pascavis, researched options and explored fundraising ideas. The New England company UltiPlay was hired to provide the design and construction services. Fundraising efforts included a silent auction and Family Fun Fair in April 2013, plus "Buy a Brick" and "Silver for Squadron" campaigns.

Although funding was a priority, the Simsbury community also responded with a wealth of human resources.

Todd Warner of Warco Construction donated his time as well as supplies and equipment, while several local businesses, such as Antonio’s, Atillio’s, Dunkin Donuts, Brookside Bagels, Fitzgerald’s, Joe’s Pizza, and Kane’s, donated food and coffee. Simsbury Stop 'n Shop representative Yvonne Armando's hands may have been cold due to the freezing temperatures during the two mornings of the build, but she and the more than a dozen Stop 'n Shop volunteers she brought with her arrived with warm hearts. Said Armando, "We love to help in the community. We have some of our people coming to help from as far as an hour away."

Staff and faculty from Squadron Line School took shifts as well. Kindergarten teacher Georgia Austin, Principal Meg Evans, and Assistant Principal Maggie Seidel wielded rakes and shovels to spread layer after layer of mulch, donated by the Town of Simsbury.

At the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Evans addressed the students, who shouted their heartfelt thank you’s in unison to all the volunteers and people who helped. Said Evans to the students, “Our motto is ‘We all SHINE at Squadron Line.’ This is possible because we live in such a wonderful community that works together to do what is best for you.”

According to Pascavis, "We are thinking about a Phase 2 to provide some shade structures and benches." But looking around at the excited children, she added, “Right now we are just taking some time to enjoy!”

“Buy a Brick” donations are still being accepted to build a walkway to the playground. To purchase a brick, please contact Wilcoxfamily@mac.com.