Grant keeps playground project ahead of schedule

A project to build a new playground at Gilberts Elementary School is ahead of schedule, thanks to the generosity of the community and the hard work of dedicated families.

Last week, the Community Unit District 300 school received two grants totaling $6,000 for use toward the purchase and construction of new playground equipment. A parent and grandmother of students submitted the applications.

“Parents are so vital to what we do here,” Gilberts Elementary Principal Jeff King said. “We are able to offer so many extra programs and activities because of our parental support.”

Sue Corbett, who has a child in the third grade at Gilberts Elementary and another child in high school, applied for and received a $5,000 grant through the Lowes Charitable and Educational Foundation. The foundation provides funds for home improvement, education and building a better world, its website says.

“It is so important because schools are cutting back on gym and kids aren’t getting the exercise they need,” Corbett said. “The old playground couldn’t accommodate one grade level. When it is complete, it will be able to accommodate all of the kids that want to be on it.”

In addition, Deanna Cavanaugh, a Pingree Grove resident whose grandchildren attend Gilberts Elementary School, was awarded a $1,000 grant through the Pfizer Foundation.

Together, the grant funding will help the school complete the third phase of its five-phase playground project, which will add a climbing area and a slide, King said. Phase three is estimated at $36,000. The total cost of construction is $164,182 and is expected to be completed within the next two years.

“We are one year ahead because of parents and grandparents like Sue and Deanna,” King said. “It is also the families that chip in for our general fundraising as well. That is where most of our funding comes from, but it is the shining stars that make it a little easier.”