Woodfin – Several years of fundraising have culminated in a big moment for Woodfin Elementary. Recently, the students and staff held a groundbreaking ceremony to note the beginning of construction on their brand-new playground.Several years ago, donors in the community rallied around Woodfin to support the school with various fundraising projects.
This led to a conversation about what a dream project for the school would look like. A large playground was envisioned.Currently, the school has a small playground that all of the students share.
The initial fundraising goal was over $200,000,”When I came along, these donors felt certain we would far surpass our original goal of $227,000,” said Nicole Roberts, who’s serving her first year as principal at Woodfin. “They wanted to know what would be an idea for any extra money raised, and I suggested a walking track to circle the playground. “These donors and community supporters, who preferred to remain anonymous, hosted several summertime fundraisers.
The final amount raised was over $328,000. In addition to new climbing and swinging equipment, plans include the walking track, an ADA-compliant ramp from the upper school level to the playground level, and a slide from the ramp onto the play area.
Woodfin Elementary School hopes to open the playground by the end of the school year.
Editor’s note: Reaves is Assistant Director of Communications with the Buncombe County Schools.