Big day at Tarentorus School tomorrow. And you're invited

OPP NEWS RELEASE

************************* Invitation to the public: You are invited top attend a ribbon cutting assembly celebrating the completion of the Eric Nystedt Memorial Playground

Tarentorus Public School, Tuesday, November 15, 2011, 2 p.m.

Phase 1 & 2 (completed 2009)

Phase 1 and 2 of the Eric Nystedt Memorial Playground project included the building of larger play structures geared at the primary- and junior-aged children, as well as new sports elements and individual play elements such as tether balls, fun ball, climbing pods, fire truck climber & activity panels.

All phase one and two components were designed to support gross motor, creative and social skill development.

We are pleased to announce that third final phase of the Eric Nystedt Memorial Playground has been completed.

Inclusive playground

Phase Three includes an inclusive playground.

The playground is designed to offer an inclusive environment for all the students at Tarentorus.

In addition to allowing access for students with limited mobility, playground pieces were selected with an eye towards supporting the needs of the students with autism and Down's syndrome.

It may look like any other regular playground but all elements were specifically planned with these kids in mind.

You'll notice there are swings, a balance beam, climbing equipment and moving elements (spin-about, track rail, bouncy bounce and teeter totter), all of which have all been selected to assist with any vestibular and proprioceptive needs our students may have.

The inclusive playground is also designed to help encourage children with social challenges towards interaction with peers.

This is especially beneficial for students who may tend to be anxious or withdrawn in group settings.

Outdoor classroom & community pavilion

The Outdoor Classroom was planned to increase the quality and benefit of outdoor experiences for the children.

Nearly every activity that can be done indoors can be done outdoors.

The pavilion with seating offers an alternate setting from the regular four wall classroom.

Students will benefit from hands - on lessons incorporating natural elements into core curriculum subjects. This accessible pavilion and seating allow for many families and community members (including those with mobility needs) the opportunity to come together and enjoy quality time in an outdoor environment. The pavilion also offers shade & weather protection on the grounds.

Thank you

This initiative was spearheaded by the Tarentorus Home & School Committee, which raised approximately $100,000 to bring about the enhanced outdoor learning environment known as the “Eric Nystedt Memorial Playground.”

A special thank you to the many community organizations that helped support the final phase of our Playground Improvement Project:

- Scotiabank - RCMP Foundation Grant

- OPP Youth Foundation

- Civitan International Foundation of Canada

- Ruscio Construction & Masonry

- Rotary Club of Sault Ste. Marie North

- Clarida Construction

- TD Friends of the Environment Foundation

- OPP and OPPA

- Mr. Stephen King, retired principal of Tarentorus

- Tarentorus families and community members

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