PEABODY — The McCarthy School Playground Committee and the McCarthy School PTO are working together to raise money for a new community playground where “every child plays.”
“We are seeking to develop an inclusive and accessible playground for ALL students, as well as all community members,” said Principal Michelle Zottoli. “The new playground is designed for both the physical and developmental differences between early childhood and upper elementary students.”
The committee recently announced it is selling student-designed keychains at a cost of $2 each through March 20. Every student who sells at least 10 keychains will be entered into a drawing to win a $50 Amazon gift card. The students who sell the most keychains at each elementary school will become principal for a day, while the runner-up will have a cruiser ride with School Resource Officer Eric Ricci and Ella, the department’s K-9 officer.
The top two winners across the city will have the opportunity to become mayor for a day and one will be treated to lunch with Superintendent Dr. Josh Vadala.
The McCarthy School is composed of students attending the Peabody Integrated Preschool and elementary students in grades K-5. 135 preschool students ages 3-5 years old attend the school. More than half of them are on Individualized Education Plans for a multitude of disabilities including physical, social, and academic disabilities. The elementary school includes approximately 220 students in grades K-5 from varying socio-economic and cultural backgrounds.
The playground has three sections; one play area for children ages 2-5, another for ages 5-12, and a section in the middle with swings for both groups. These three areas will allow age-appropriate play within one cohesive playground. In addition, the playground will have rubber paths, a swing with access for people of all abilities, and play activities for children with mobility challenges.
Zottoli said the playground will be used year-round and “will be a city-wide resource for all children.”
“That’s going to be a really good project for us for that school and the city and a lot of our summer programs,” said Peabody Mayor Edward A. Bettencourt, Jr. “That group is a very committed and motivated group of people who care about that school.”
To make an immediate cash donation to the playground through Paypal, visit https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=JG9QYD7B7TD74.
Monetary donations in any amount, silent auction donations, and volunteers are welcome. For questions, more information, or to purchase a keychain, visit the Every Child Plays Peabody Community Playground Facebook page or email [email protected].
The committee hopes to deliver the keychains during April vacation.
