Community help makes DeSales playground possible

DeSales Catholic School is taking recess to a whole new level. The Lockport pre-K-8 school celebrated the first day of school by debuting the new playground. Students can climb, slide and swing all day, providing they finish with their class work, of course.

Bishop Michael W. Fisher was on hand during the Sept. 4 ribbon cutting ceremony to bless the new jungle gym, swing set and wooden pavilion.

“Brothers and sisters, God has given us our physical powers in order that we may serve Him joyously, help one another, and by discipline in accordance with the law of God, make our body fit for every good work,” Bishop Fisher said. “God therefore approves of recreation for the relaxation of the mind and the exercise of the body. Care of our bodies fosters mental well-being, and we more readily establish good relations with other people.”

DeSales opened as a regional elementary school in 1990. The original playground was installed shortly thereafter.

“It served its purpose for 30 years, but it was dated and small,” explained Principal Karen Rahill. “So, it was our goal to have something that could accommodate more students, accommodate students with special needs, and just a safer playground for our children.”

It took two years of contacting donors to complete the $100,000 project, which is 100 percent donor funded.

“We had a lot of large gifts. We probably had 25 different organizations that contributed to the playground, as well as several parents and former parents who donated time and resources,” Rahill said, adding that 30 kids and parents chipped in by shoveling and raking mulch to create a soft landing spot for kids coming down the slides. “We’re very fortunate here to have such a supportive community.”

As the DeSales mascot is a knight, the intricate jungle gym is known as the castle. It has two slides, rope ladders and climbing bars in a 50 by 75 foot area. The new swing set includes a freedom swing designed for children who cannot use an ordinary swing. A sign language placard honors the Lockport Sunrise Optimist Club that provides sign language lessons at the school.

The pavilion offers shade for parents or teachers watching the kids. It also acts as a shelter for picnics and reunions.

The whole playground can hold two classes at once.

Bishop Fisher also toured DeSales and welcomed the students back from summer vacation.