Odenton Elementary School Raising Money for New Playgrounds

Over 400 children walk the halls of Odenton Elementary School (OES) every day. This year will be slightly different then the start of any other year at OES as the school has recently undergone some changes. On July 28, 2014, the first of two playgrounds was removed due to old age and deteriorating status. At the end the 2014-15 school year, we will lose the second playground. Unfortunately, the county and school system are unable to provide the OES with the funds to replace the playground thus the responsiblity has been placed on the PTA to raise the funds through fundraisers and community support.

Outdoor playtime assists students both physically and academically. Playgrounds provide children a break from the traditional classroom where they are free to be loud, let off steam, run and jump. They also provide real life learning opportunities such as learning about gravity, velocity, momentum, and even musical rhythms. Playgrounds also encourage kids to be creative and imaginative! This challenges them to use their brains in a different way than traditional learning. Playgrounds also help teach social skills such as sharing, taking turns, helping others and being aware of ones surroundings.

The OES playgrounds are not just used by the school but by the community as a whole. The Arundel Soccer Association, Open Door After School Care, and Anne Arundel County Parks & Rec Summer Fun Centers are just a few of the organizations that use the OES building, property and playgrounds year round.

While the parents, students and staff of OES are committed to raising the money to replace the playgrounds, they cannot do it alone. The PTA is seeking assistance from the community to help raise the money for great new and SAFE playgrounds for everyone to enjoy.

Donations are being accepted on the OES PTA website at odentonpta.org/playground.

The PTA is also hosting two playground specific fundraisers. The first is a Krispy Kreme monthly fundraiser. Donuts can be ordered by the dozen for $8/each. Orders for September are due by the 19th and donuts can be picked up on Friday, Sept 26th at the school between 5:30 - 6:30pm. More information and an online ordering can be found at odentonpta.org/KrispyKreme. The second fundraiser is a 1 mile Fun Run and Family Fun Day. Those interested in participating in the run can register online at odentonpta.org/FunRun.

As Mr. Rogers stated, ‘Play is often talked about as if it were a serious relief from learning. But for children, play is serious learning.’ Help us keep play in our day!