Laughter rises with the breeze and swirls like the autumn leaves around John Jay Middle School’s new playground cupped into the hill by the school’s theater entrance. Its source: the student lounging in the center of the large, disc-shaped swing, and her two friends who are pushing her!
Nearby, another student is climbing into a globe-shaped structure, using its nets like ladders. Once nestled into the center, he flashes a huge smile. His aide begins to turn it like a merry-go-round, and another giggle layers into the soundscape.
This is John Jay Middle School’s new accessible playground. The contemporary equipment is designed to provide fun and challenging experiences for users of all abilities while letting them feel safe and in control. The inclusive, student-centered commons turned a little-used piece of parking lot into a rejuvenating recess option.
“We’ve wanted to provide an inclusive playground at John Jay Middle School for many years,” said Assistant Superintendent for Business Lisa Herlihy. An interfund transfer, and a $100,000 Community Resiliency, Economic Sustainability, and Technology (CREST) Grant from Senator Peter B. Harckham’s office, made it possible.
“My students have been using the playground during their lunch periods since it opened in early October,” said special education teacher Peter Iannarelli. “They love it!”
“I see many happy smiles there,” said special education teacher aide Kathy King.
"The playground has been a fantastic addition,” said Assistant Principal Mike Pompa, taking a turn on the swing. “It offers another welcoming space for students to gather, play and form friendships. It’s been great to see students actively using and enjoying this area. We believe it will strengthen our school community and support our mission to create a sense of belonging for everyone.”
The playground was designed with feedback from the District’s special education parent teacher organization (SEPTO). “We were so glad to be asked to provide input into the new playground!” said SEPTO treasurer Leigh Woods, adding that the group was particularly happy about the sturdy swing.
An upgraded theater entrance, which runs along one side of the playground, was folded into the renovation. It features an inviting walkway of two-toned pavers set in a diamond design and lined with native trees.
This is the entrance that families will use for the school’s concerts and plays, musicals and special assemblies. Chances are good that people of all ages will take a turn on the swing and check out the marble panel and wobble chairs before heading inside, broadening the school community even further through play.