Now let’s have some fun!

We need your help to determine exactly what kind of play equipment our new schoolyard will have installed next summer!

What: Come to the meeting to decide what playground equipment our kids will enjoy for years to come. We may also identify minor items for the Schoolyard that the PTO would pay for (additional seating, landscaping, etc.).

Who: Any current Irving parent, guardian, teacher or staff member may attend and give input. This means any current member of the PTO.

When: Thursday, December 6, 6:30-8:30pm.

A follow-up meeting will be on Monday, December 10, 6:30-8:30pm, to review the final plans.

Where: Irving School Auditorium. Free childcare is provided in the Community Room.

Click here to see examples of playground equipment. We encourage you to visit the schools who already have new playgrounds (Beye, Holmes, Longfellow, Lincoln), or to talk to friends at those schools for their feedback. We are looking to purchase equipment similar to what is going in at other Oak Park elementary schools.

The landscape architects will be on hand to guide us through the process of choosing equipment within our budget.

Things to consider when determining playground equipment:

Activity: The play equipment provides physical activity and exercise.
Gathering spaces: Where can children go, alone or in groups, when they’re not active?
Creativity: Equipment and spaces can provide inspiration for young imaginations.
Density: Irving has a very dense playspace for children to play.
Shade: The building offers some shade. Equipment can also offer shade.
Supervision: Some play equipment requires more supervision than others.
Accessibility: Ensure play items are accessible for students with differing abilities.
Seating: For adults and children.
Safety: Safety is a high priority.

We look forward to hearing from you on THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6 AT 6:30PM!

Questions? Please contact Margaret Jeschke (margaret_jeschke@yahoo.com) or Laura Crawford (lauracrawford47@gmail.com).

Please note: this meeting will take the place of the regularly scheduled December PTO meeting. The next PTO meeting is January 10.