The children at Dade Elementary have been enjoying a little free time at recess by playing on new playground equipment that has recently been installed. The completion of half of the planned playground space comes at the end of a two-year vision to see appropriate grounds for play to accomodate the 900+ student body.

The project was started by a small group of teachers with a desire to see the needs of Dade Elementary students met, not only academically, but physically as well. Fund-raisers were planned and input was given from each of the seven grade levels to ensure developmentally appropriate sites would become reality. The board of education was invited to view current facilities. Everyone agreed there was a need for improvment.

Dade Elementary parents volunteered to break down and remove old equipment. Coupon books, raffle tickets, and signs were sold in order to raise the first $14,000 to start the project. Private donations and SPLOST funds were also used to complete the project. Parent volunteer, Careyee Bell, worked closely with several manufacturers to ensure speedy delivery and installation.

The second half of the equipment will be delivered and assembled before school starts in August. After all equipment is installed, topsoil and grass will be added to finish the project. Dade Elementary students and teachers would like to thank everyone for all the hard work that was given to this project. In the end, our students will have a playground to be proud of for years to come.