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USD 418 approves inclusive Eisenhower Elementary playground funded largely by special-ed cooperative
Summary
The board approved a wheelchair-accessible playground at Eisenhower Elementary, funded largely with $217,000 from the Special Education Cooperative, an estimated $8,000 from the district, and a $50,000 cooperative contribution for shade; staff said turf surfacing and adaptive equipment will improve inclusion for K–5 students.
The McPherson USD 418 board approved a plan to replace Eisenhower Elementary’s pea-gravel play area with an inclusive playground featuring a wheelchair-accessible main structure, adaptive equipment and turf surfacing.
Mrs. Strathman and Mr. Allen described the project as intended to provide life-skills and medically fragile students with meaningful recess access alongside their peers. Staff said the Special Education Cooperative earmarked $217,000 for the project; the district will contribute roughly $8,000 and the cooperative also committed an additional $50,000 specifically for a shade structure. The Eisenhower PTO is also fundraising to contribute to the project.
Staff said turf recommended for the playground has an expected useful life of about 10 years and that some existing equipment might be reused or offered to community partners if it cannot be reintegrated elsewhere in the district.
A board member asked whether the district has comparable playgrounds at the middle-school level; staff said middle schools provide indoor gym access but lack outdoor, accessible playgrounds.
The board approved the project by voice vote. Staff said approval will allow the district to proceed with procurement and installation, including the added shade component.
Next steps: procure vendor work and schedule installation with the goal of delivering improved playground access for K–5 students.
