Back to School: Haine Elementary Gets New Playground

students are in for a treat when they return to school next week—a new playground.

“The kids are going to be so stoked,” said Chris Sherry, outgoing president of the Haine School Parent Teacher Organization.

The PTO funded $16,000 for the new playground, which was installed last week by Snider and Associates. The jungle gym—which includes a slide and monkey bars—replaces two outdated structures.

“It was starting to show its wear,” Sherry said of the old equipment.

Through the Burke Cash 4 Kids Grant, the PTO received a $5,400 discount on the playground, Sherry said. The new Burke-brand equipment also is ADA complaint.

“It will really give all kids the ability to use it,” Sherry said.

The organization paid for the equipment using money from its various fundraisers, including its signature fall fundraiser, book fairs and spirit wear sales.

Haine Principal Michelle Ellis was thrilled with the new playground.

“We are just overwhelmed with the support of the PTO,” she said.

Haine students won’t be the only ones enjoying the new equipment. Ellis said many children and parents who live near the school also utilize the playground.

“I think it really serves a dual purpose,” she said.