Update: The Verndale Legacy Foundation, in partnership with the Verndale School, purchased the playground in FY24-25 school year. The last fundraising needs is for the surfacing of the playground which will cost around $150,000.
The school will break ground on the playground in June 2026. Students WILL have a new playground for the 2026-2027 school year!
____________________________________________________________________________
First Post: The Verndale School is in desperate need of some up-to-date, all-inclusive playground equipment. There are many deficits to the current reality:
- Students in wheelchairs do not have options when they go out to the playground. The new playground has several options for interacting with equipment as well as surface options for ease of movement around the playground.
- During the spring and heavy rain periods, all the water sits on the playground making it unusable. The new plan will ensure that water is redirected and is able to drain quickly.
- The pre-school students do not have equipment that is appropriate for their level. The new plan includes a separate play space with a fence, ensuring no child can run.
- The current equipment does not address the needs of the upper elementary students who use this space. The new plan will include equipment that is appropriate for all levels, pre-k to 6th grade.
It is the goal of the committee to create a space that excites the students who will be using it and that welcomes ALL students, no matter their age or abilities.
The Verndale school is located in Wadena County, MN. It is the 4th poorest county in the state of MN and 51% of the student qualify for free or reduced lunch. The capacity of the community to raise funds for this project is limited. The students of the Verndale School would appreciate your consideration for donation and sponsorship.
Thank you!
