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Mary Blunt Elementary inclusive playground fundraising continues; district not asked to fund project
Summary
District staff reported ongoing fundraising for an inclusive playground at Mary Blunt Elementary with an estimated cost above $330,000; a separate account has been established for donations and the district has not been asked to include the project in the operating budget.
District staff provided an update on fundraising for an inclusive playground at Mary Blunt Elementary, reporting continued donor outreach and the creation of a separate account to hold project donations.
Ryan Farrell told the board he sought prior approval in April to proceed with the Inclusive Playground Project at Mary Blunt Elementary contingent on full funding. He said the estimated total cost is "over $330,000," and that staff and volunteers have been networking with potential donors and searching grant opportunities.
Farrell said several prospective donors expressed hesitation about contributing unless the board signaled clear, timely progress and transparency — including assurance about how funds would be handled if the project stalled or project champions moved on. In response, the district established a Mary Blunt account for donations that will be used only for the Inclusive Playground; any surplus would be reserved for ongoing maintenance until depleted.
Farrell reiterated he has not requested district budget inclusion for the project and did not seek operating funds from the district at this time. He said he remains optimistic and that staff continue to pursue grants and donor commitments.
No board vote was taken on the playground at the meeting.
