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Parents urge removal of artificial turf option from master plan, push for real green spaces
Summary
Multiple commenters asked the board to remove or amend a provision that lists artificial turf as a playground option, citing heat, sustainability and student-safety concerns and proposing grant-funded gardens and green play areas as alternatives.
Several public commenters specifically asked the board to eliminate a line in the master plan that lists artificial turf as a recommended option for playgrounds and exterior areas. One commenter argued artificial turf is not sustainable and raises heat and safety issues, asking the board to "quiten esa declaración de de poner césped artificial, porque no tiene nada que ver con un entorno sano y y la sostenibilidad." The same commenter suggested available grant opportunities and community groups could help fund natural green-space alternatives.
Other speakers urged the district to expand outdoor learning and garden programs, noting research that time spent outdoors supports socioemotional development and that local PTAs have already raised funds to support plantings. Board staff responded that playground treatments are listed as options in the master plan and that site-specific decisions and studies will determine final surface choices; staff suggested the board could request more-detailed analyses and alternatives for future votes.
