Students and teachers held a groundbreaking for the school's new Peaceful Playground Program Tuesday morning. The school's parent council funded the program, which cost almost $10,000, Principal Rita London said.
The Sunset playground now has a blacktop area featuring colorful markings, new games and equipment. The project isn't complete, but there were enough games in place to get going Tuesday.
"The whole point is for there to be enough activity during playtime," London said. "When the kids are busy, there's less fussing and fighting."
The program comes with detailed lesson plans and videos designed to encourage conflict resolution. "Rock, paper, scissors" is often the preferred method of conflict resolution. The games are fun and, if they happen to meet state benchmarks, so much the better.
Students at Sunset take a 15 minute recess in the morning, and they also get to go outside during lunch. The students have physical education once a week, and coach Julie Meadors will instruct them on the lessons provided. Responsible students will then be allowed to check out equipment.
Sunset custodian Adam Munoz suggested holding the ribbon cutting, London said. Constructors Inc., Garden Mart and CMS plumber Bennie Cummings all also helped make the project possible.
For more information, visit Peaceful Playgrounds