Athena-Weston School District is proud to announce the installation of new inclusive playground equipment at Athena Elementary School, made possible through a $20,000 grant from the Wildhorse Foundation. This addition to the school's campus aims to promote inclusivity and equal opportunities for students to engage in active play.
Through the generous Wildhorse Foundation grant, Athena-Weston School District (AWSD) enhanced its playground with a specialized swing and a sensory maze. The play structures have been thoughtfully designed to accommodate students with diverse needs, ensuring that everyone can enjoy playtime without limitations. By creating an accessible and inclusive space, the district aims to promote social interaction, physical activity, and overall well-being among its students. The district plans to continue fundraising in an effort to purchase additional equipment for increased access to all children.
Athena Elementary School Principal Kerri Coffman expressed her enthusiasm for the upgrade, stating, "We are thrilled to have this inclusive playground as part of our school environment. It is essential that every student feels welcome and included, regardless of their physical abilities. This new equipment will foster a sense of belonging and create opportunities for our students to build friendships and develop important social skills through play."
AWSD Superintendent Ann Vescio added, "We are deeply grateful to the Wildhorse Foundation for their generous grant, which has allowed us to make this project a reality. We believe every child deserves an environment that supports their physical, social, and emotional growth, and this playground is a testament to that commitment."
Adding more inclusive playground equipment at Athena Elementary School represents the collaborative efforts of the Athena-Weston School District, the Wildhorse Foundation, and the wider community. It serves as a testament to the district's dedication to promoting inclusivity and ensuring that every student has the opportunity to thrive and succeed.
Photos provided by the Athena-Weston School District
Photo 1: A new sensory maze has been installed on the playground at Athena Elementary School. Students can explore textures, colors, and shapes with this specialized equipment that adds access and inclusivity to their play experience.
Photo 2: A student at Athena Elementary School gets to enjoy the new inclusive swing equipment. The specialized seat allows students with various levels of physical mobility to access the swing, assisting in balance and equilibrium.