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Star King parents urge board to finish yard resurfacing this summer to preserve Springboard program
Summary
Families and teachers from Star King Elementary told the Board of Education that delaying playground resurfacing would force their summer reading program to relocate and reduce access for neighborhood students; speakers provided data on reading gains and asked the district to expedite repairs this summer.
A coalition of Star King Elementary parents, teachers and PTA representatives told the Board of Education on May 28 that asphalt repairs scheduled at the school should be completed this summer to avoid closing the site for two summers and to protect the Springboard summer reading program.
Stacy Layton, a Star King parent, said the site was told its playground has safety issues and would need to be closed for work. "We've been informed that our school site would need to be closed this upcoming summer," Layton said, adding that the closure would force Springboard to relocate and reduce neighborhood families' ability to participate.
Multiple speakers offered measurable results to support the request. Kathy Bellen, a Star King kindergarten-through-second-grade special day teacher, said the program has lifted reading levels for many students. "Of the kids enrolled in the program, about half of the kids advanced to reading levels," she said. Parents described Springboard as a neighborhood-accessible program that previously served up to 100 students and asked that facilities staff accelerate resurfacing so Springboard can remain at Star King next summer.
Board members thanked speakers and staff said they would follow up. Deputy Superintendent Lee acknowledged the value of the program and district staff indicated they could provide contact follow-up to check logistics and feasibility.
Next steps: Parents asked the board to coordinate with facilities to examine options to complete work this summer; district staff said they will gather contact information and follow up with the parents who spoke.
