SPRING HILL, Fla. — Students at Chocachatti Elementary School are getting their very first playground, thanks to students and parents.
- Chocachatti Elementary students getting new playground
- Students, parents raised money for playground
- Playground to open sometime this week
Since the school didn't have enough money to get one built, students made a video to raise money. They even fundraised outside local businesses in the county.
It's been an ongoing effort for nearly two years by the organization Project Playground to get the structure built. In that time they raised nearly $60,000.
"When the thermometer on our fundraising meter started rising, I think people took us seriously. We had people wanting to be a part of it and wanting to kind of leave a legacy," Airen Thomas with Project Playground said.
The group plans to continue raising money to get at least one play structure and more sensory equipment.
"This unit is ADA accessible but we want to make sure every kids in the school has the opportunity to play something, and really get out and enjoy their recess time," Thomas said.
The playground is expected to be completed sometime this week after they lay down mulch and pass inspections.
School staff plans to incorporate playground safety into student lessons this week ahead of the opening.