Ridgewood Elementary opens new inclusive playground and pavilion

Ridgewood Local Schools announced the new Ridgewood Elementary School inclusive playground and learning pavilion are officially open. This project provides an accessible space for students and community.

"At Ridgewood Elementary, our goal is to provide every child with opportunities to learn and play in a safe, welcoming environment. This new playground makes that possible for all students," Principal Nate Carpenter said. "We are so thankful to our sponsors, our community and our Ridgewood Local School Board for making this dream a reality. Our students are excited, and I know this will be a place filled with joy and laughter for years to come."

The playground will be open to the community daily:

—During school days from 3 p.m. until dusk.

—On weekends, holidays and nonschool days from 8 a.m. until dusk.

Everyone is asked to help take care of this new addition to the community:

—Place all trash in the bins provided and keep the area clean for all families.

—Treat the playground equipment and pavilion with care.

—If you witness inappropriate use of the facilities, contact Ridgewood Local Schools and/or the West Lafayette Police Department.

The entire area is under video surveillance.

The Ridgewood Local School Board will hold a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Friday, Oct. 17 at 8 a.m. at the Ridgewood Elementary School playground. The community is welcome to attend.

This project was made possible through the support of sponsors and partners including Jones Metal, Coshocton Foundation, Montgomery Foundation, McWane Ductile, Coshocton Regional Hospital and Coshocton Kiwanis Club. Baltic State Bank and Peoples Bank assisted by providing financing.

"We are thrilled to officially open this inclusive playground and learning pavilion. It represents years of planning, hard work, and generous support of our community partners and our Ridgewood Local School Board," Superintendent Mike Masloski said. "This playground is more than equipment. It's a space where children will learn, grow and build memories together. It truly reflects the spirit of Ridgewood."