A.L. Horton School's new Playground Opens

 Rosanne Fortier - News Correspondent

 Playgrounds are a fun and welcoming space for children where they grow in all areas of development.

This statement echoed throughout the Unveiling and Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony for the new playground at A.L. Horton School on August 28,

At first sight, it was evident that the well-designed structure and play equipment would stimulate learning and help creativity in students. The main colours are blue and yellow, which are the national colours of Ukraine and are fitting as these colours represent the strong Ukrainian culture in our community.

Friends of A.L. Horton Elementary School Society raised funds for approximately five years for this project.

President Erin Robert expressed that this space will be the foundation of friendship, adventures, and friendly competitions that our children will thrive and learn from. It will be the object that will help our children grow into well-rounded people for years to come.

Robert went on to say she was pleased to be part of the amazing group that worked so incredibly hard, which included fundraisers, generous donations, support, community improvement grants, and hours of volunteering. “In the past four years, we were able to raise over $250,000 to be able to complete this one-of-a-kind playground.”

Assistant Principal Amy Rice emceed the ceremony. Trustee Randy Footz said he was honoured to represent EIPS to celebrate the opening of this beautiful new playground. It symbolizes the spirit of cooperation and the knowledge that imaginative play is important to the well-being of children.

Playgrounds provide the opportunity for physical activity, and promote lifelong health. But the benefits go far beyond fitness; playgrounds teach children resilience, to share, to take turns, and they provide ways to resolve conflicts. “Playgrounds instill confidence, encourage creativity, and foster healthy attitudes. They are essential to the physical, social, and emotional development of every child.”

Principal Murray Howell mentioned that the space represents more than just swings, slides, and climbing structures-it represents community, teamwork, and care for their students.

“Students, may this be a place filled with laughter, friendship, and fun. Staff, thank you for guiding, supervising, and celebrating alongside them.

Together, we’ve built more than just a playground-we’ve built memories for years to come,” Howell stated.

Rice closed by saying to the students, “Remember to play safe, take care of the equipment, and look out for one another. This playground is a gift, and we want to make sure it stays fun and safe for everyone.”

At the end of the program, Howell was the first person to try out the slide.