Ridgewood Elementary creating inclusive playground

The playground at Ridgewood Elementary School was more than 30 years old and needed upgrades for safety as well as to be more inclusive to all children. This summer, the district built a new playground at the school.

Superintendent Mike Masloski said, “Our RES playground project is about more than just play – it’s about creating an inclusive, engaging space for all students in our community. This project reflects our commitment to accessibility and student well-being. We are proud to invest in a space that will serve generations of Ridgewood families.”

Masloski also shared that this is a one of a kind for the district.

Elementary School Principal Nate Carpenter has been working toward the playground upgrades for several months. He said the updates are needed to bring the children together and that he and the staff are all excited for their students to enjoy a space that promotes creativity and healthy play.

“The new playground features accessible equipment, sensory-rich elements and opportunities for imaginative and cooperative play,” Carpenter said. He added that the playground will serve as a daily extension of the school’s mission to support the development of the whole child.

The district would like to thank the local businesses and organizations that made the playground project possible. Jones Metal Products was named a gold level sponsor as the company and their employees donated $25,000 toward the playground. The Coshocton Foundation and the Montgomery Foundation were both named silver level, bronze level was McWane Ductile and supporter level were Coshocton Kiwanis Club and Coshocton Regional Medical Center.