Home / Education / Saskatoon Playground Opens Doors for All Kids
Saskatoon Playground Opens Doors for All Kids
12 Sep
Summary
- Accessible playground opened at St. Anne School in Saskatoon.
- Parents raised over $370,000 for the playground's construction.
- The playground features rubber surfacing and ramp-connected structures.
A new accessible playground has officially opened at St. Anne School in Saskatoon, significantly enhancing the play experience for all students. The launch event on Thursday saw six-year-old Makenna Hiebert, a Grade 1 student who uses a wheelchair, cut the ceremonial ribbon, symbolizing a new era of inclusivity for the school.
The creation of this vital community asset was spearheaded by Makenna's parents, Brittany and Justin Hiebert. Their determined efforts successfully raised more than $370,000, demonstrating a profound commitment to providing equitable play opportunities. This project took approximately a year and a half from conception to completion, overcoming the significant hurdle of fundraising.
The thoughtfully designed playground boasts a rubberized surface for safety and ease of movement. Its central structure is connected by five ramps, ensuring wheelchair accessibility throughout. Innovative features like an accessible teeter-totter and slides equipped with transfer platforms allow children to easily move from their wheelchairs onto the play equipment. This inclusive design means students like Makenna can fully participate and play side-by-side with their peers, fostering a stronger sense of community and belonging.
