Kelly Misch
District Communications Director
440-286-0409
August 15, 2022 — The Park Elementary School PTO made a sizable donation — just under $27K — to Chardon Schools this spring for new equipment at the school's south-end playground. The equipment installation was completed this summer and the ribbon-cutting ceremony took place during the school's family back-to-school bash this evening.
The school's families as well as community members and community businesses/organizations, were at the heart of $17K of the total donated. Through two major and successful 2021-22 fundraisers organized by the Park PTO - Color Run (included pledges from families) and - Park Carnival, this extraordinary contribution was possible.
An equally extraordinary component of the $27K was a surprise $10K check from Preston Superstore to Park Elementary PTO in early 2022. Specifically, Preston's immense generosity allowed the PTO to add the climbing dome - Dome 3 - to the project.
Dome 3 allows for climbing up all sides to the top plus climbing activities on the inside and several areas for sensory activities. The Park Elementary PTO is grateful to Preston Superstore for providing the opportunity for the school to select such a unique piece of equipment - new in the 2022 catalog and making Park the first school in Northeast Ohio to feature this item!
A Chardon Schools parent - Mike Snider, through Snider Recreation Inc., worked with the District on this playground upgrade project as he wanted to be a part of giving back to the community.
The Park Elementary PTO's $27K in funds covered the equipment, shipping and installation.
Via coordination with the District's Business Affairs department, the following items were removed this summer to make way for the equipment installation: series of bars in one corner of the playground, seesaws near the library, and one of the single standing tire swings.
Thank you to ALL for making these exciting updates possible at Park Elementary! Enjoy, Park Hilltoppers!
#WeAreChardon