Finn School has new additions to their playground this fall thanks to Finn SOS, Recreation, Friends of Southborough Recreation, and New England Recreation Group. The brief, contributed video above highlights the new playground equipment and shows the school’s appreciation.
Some of you who saw earlier, grander plans for an entirely revamped playground may be surprised. The addition is just two new pieces of equipment. But they fill important needs for the school.
Originally, SOS was seeking to raise $250K for a playground redesign. Unfortunately, their fundraising only came up with $50K. The school pulled back and focused on the primary objective. The old playground didn’t offer enough access for children with special needs and disabilities.
Principal Clayton Ryan explained that both new pieces are more easily accessible and ADA compliant. They also fill another important gap – a play space developmentally appropriate for 3-4 year olds. In addition to the public K-1, Finn houses the district’s preschool program. (You can learn more about that here.)
According to Ryan, the project was possible at reduced costs thanks to another $10K from Recreation and the Friends of Rec, and help from an important ally.
Southborough resident Chuck Ramando had children who went through the Southborough school system. He worked with Finn SOS to get the project done. His company, New England Recreation Group, covered the extra costs not raised and installed the equipment for free.
Updated (9/25/18 11:39 am): Initially, Principal Ryan forgot to include the support from Recreation and the Friends of Rec. He asked me to rectify that.
