From LINDSAY-JO DOUGLAS
BG Independent News
Two summers ago, intervention specialist Rachel Shell learned that she would be working with two students who are wheelchair-users. As part of her preparation, she evaluated Crim Elementary School’s playground and discovered there was not much opportunity for them to play freely with other students. If the children wanted to use any equipment, they needed full physical assistance from adults.
Understanding the importance of play, Shell set out to create a playground that was inclusive for children of all abilities. She began looking for equipment, getting quotes, planning, fundraising, and applying for grants to make her vision a reality.
“All the things I had never done before,” Shell said. “It was a real ‘learn-by-doing’ experience.”
“Through sheer determination, a lot of grit, and some rose-colored glasses, we were able to raise the funds,” she said.
The inclusive playground features new equipment and a poured rubber path. Most playgrounds, including Crim Elementary’s, have mulch, which is difficult to wheel a chair through. The poured rubber path aims to circumvent this issue and has equipment directly on it.
“It’s really great to see the community investing in their public schools,” Shell said. “I could … [tell] you about the students it’s going to benefit – the two wheelchair users, any students that have some kind of physical disability that makes it difficult to access the equipment – but really the whole point of adding inclusive equipment is that anybody can use it. It’s not just for kids who use wheelchairs.”
“It’s so they can build these relationships and build friendships without the barrier of needing adults to facilitate that,” Shell continued.
Superintendent Ted Haselman thanked Shell for her efforts in spearheading the construction of the inclusive playground. He also noted that the playground will be used by many students of all abilities for years to come.
