Listening to Our Community
Throughout the bond planning process, families and staff emphasized the importance of maintaining safe, welcoming spaces for all students.
Playgrounds and outdoor activity areas are part of the base facilities package in Question 1, reflecting the district’s commitment to environments that support every learner.
While playgrounds are often associated with elementary students, inclusive outdoor spaces benefit students across grade levels.
Why Inclusive Play Spaces Matter
Inclusive playgrounds are designed so that students of all abilities can participate.
Modern inclusive features may include:
Accessible surfaces for mobility devices
Equipment designed for varying physical abilities
Sensory-friendly components
Spaces that encourage cooperative and social play
Inclusive design supports belonging, social development, and physical activity for a wider range of students.
Outdoor spaces are often the first place students build friendships, develop confidence, and engage in unstructured learning.
Beyond Elementary Playgrounds
Outdoor inclusivity extends beyond traditional playgrounds.
The proposed bond also includes improvements to the middle school track, which serves students in physical education classes, athletics, and extracurricular activities.
A properly maintained and updated track:
Provides a safe surface for walking, running, and fitness activities
Reduces trip hazards and uneven wear
Supports inclusive participation in PE and team sports
Allows more consistent access for students of varying skill levels
Outdoor facilities should serve students at every stage, not just during competitive events, but during daily instruction and recreation.
Current Challenges
Aging playground surfaces and worn track areas can present:
Safety concerns
Limited accessibility
Increased maintenance demands
Restricted participation for some students
As equipment and surfaces age, they require more frequent repairs and may not meet modern accessibility expectations.
What the Bond Would Support
If approved, Question 1 would allow the district to:
Update and improve playground equipment and surfaces
Incorporate inclusive design elements
Improve the middle school track surface
Create outdoor spaces that better serve a diverse student population
These improvements are focused on maintaining safe, usable environments while aligning with current accessibility standards.
A Long-Term Investment in Student Well-Being
Outdoor spaces are an extension of the classroom.
They support:
Physical development
Social-emotional growth
Inclusive participation
Community engagement
Modernizing playgrounds and tracks helps ensure these spaces remain safe, accessible, and welcoming for years to come.
Ballot Structure Reminder
Question 1: Base Facilities Package (includes playgrounds and track improvements)
Question 2: Turf & Activity Field Enhancements
Question 2 would only move forward if Question 1 is approved.
Learn More
Early Voting In Person - Lansing Fire Station: February 28, 8 AM - 12 PM
General Election: March 3