Highlands Elementary School unveiled its new accessible and inclusive playground equipment recently, making it the first in Cranbrook to provide this type of play opportunity to students with mobility issues.

The Highlands Elementary School Parent Advisory Council (PAC) held numerous fundraising events over a three-year period to raise the required $35,000 to purchase this equipment. The already popular equipment was installed in the late summer to allow all students to interact and play together beginning this school year.

“The school as a body, planned, fundraised, purchased, and installed the whole project,” said Lies Salvador, Chair of the Highlands PAC. “The principal of the school, Steve Rogers, was the key person in making this project happen. Parents, staff, and students all contributed in the success of our project.”

The Highlands PAC and school administration worked closely with the School District No. 5 in making this project a reality. The district provided the information needed for the purchase and installation of the project, along with the maintenance crew.

Salvador noted, “The ‘Aeroglider’ allows all students to play together, regardless of their abilities or mobility.

“The playground is open to all members of the community and the city for that matter- it is a public playground and we hope that other children with mobility issues will come and enjoy the use of the playground.”

In addition to the school and district, a number of parents donated their time, materials and skills to the project. These included: Salvador Ready Mix, Sandor Rentals, Top Notch Concrete Pumping, Groundworx Landscaping, All Kootenay Aggregate, Power Paving and Earl Pelletier. Additionally, donations were also provided by Telus and Cranbrook Fraternal Order of Eagles- Men and Women.

Highlands PAC has further plans for additional accessibility structures now that the first stage is complete.

Highlands Elementary School PAC

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