Frequently Asked Questions
What is happening?
We are fundraising for a new inclusive, accessible playground to replace the existing playground at the north end of the school. This area is predominantly used by primary grades.
Why are we doing this?
Recess is a big part of every school day, and not every child gets to take part in it the same way. Some students use mobility equipment. Others have sensory, developmental or learning differences, and many of these are not visible. An inclusive playground is designed so every child can get to the equipment, use it, and play alongside their friends.
Getting onto a playground is only part of inclusion. The layout matters too, so accessible features are spread throughout the space rather than tucked into one corner. A well-designed inclusive playground offers:
- Physical access
- Sensory features
- Developmental features
- A mix of play types
The benefit reaches beyond students. The Province notes that accessible playgrounds create inclusive places where families and neighbours can connect outside of school hours. A playground that works for everyone is a better gathering place for our whole community, including siblings, caregivers and neighbours of all abilities.
The current playground is estimated to be 25-30 years old. It is time to have it renewed and prioritize inclusivity, accessibility and safety while incorporating equipment that promotes physical and social development across all abilities.
What stage are we at?
The School Administrators and PAC have agreed that it is time to begin the process of redesigning and fundraising for a new playground.
We are working on creating a vision that meets the needs of all students, current and future.
We encourage the school community and neighbours to complete the Survey to provide input of what matters most to them when it comes to the playground.
We have met with Playground Equipment Suppliers and their design teams and are drafting designs specific to the space available at Ross Road.
We have spoken with other schools that have recently upgraded their playgrounds to learn what the process involves and are learning that each process can look a bit different between schools based on the schools circumstances.
All playground projects go through the school administration and the North Vancouver School District, so it is a collaborative process.
How long will it take?
A playground project of this size takes time to fundraise, plan and organize so we expect it to be a multi-year project.
How much will it cost?
The estimated budget depends on multiple factors.
There are costs for removal of the current equipment, landscaping, equipment and install and resurfacing.
The total will be in the hundreds of thousands of dollars, not the tens. For comparison, Sherwood Park Elementary School installed their playground in September 2026 and the approximate cost was $428,500. See this link for more information on their project. https://www.thenorthshorelocal.com/dnv-council-to-consider-15k-grant-for-deep-cove-school-playground/
How much do we actually need to fundraise?
The final amount we need to raise will depend on the funding and support we receive.
As a school community we need to show any potential funders or sponsors that we are committed and working towards fundraising this project. We are exploring every avenue to bring that number down, including provincial and national funding, grants and awards, business donations, community donations, and school fundraisers.
If you are interested in learning more about funding and prioritizing playground North Vancouver School District funding School Playground installations and renewals you can find out more here: https://www.sd44.ca/board-of-education/capital-plan–projects/playgrounds/
How can I help?
If you know of a grant, a business that supports community projects, or anyone we should talk to, please let us know.
If you and your kids visit a playground that you love, please take some pictures and share what equipment or aspects of the design that you liked about it and why and send it to our team.
Please fill out the survey. We want to make sure we get input from our school and community to help guide the design of the new playground. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdzcJHFiTVQQkhO60MK5SsosZ5epmOztGI5ezpW4PLR9mCkdg/viewform
Don’t want to fill out the survey but have something to say or an idea to share? Email us at rossroadplayground@gmail.com
How can I make a donation?
You can make a charitable donation on School Cash Online.
Eligible donations will receive a tax receipt. https://sd44.schoolcashonline.com/Fee/Details/299/69/false/true?fundDestination=%20ROSS%20ROAD%20-%20PAC
Be sure to select ‘Ross Road – PAC’ as your Fund Destination and indicate “New Playground” in the message field.
Who should I contact with questions?
rossroadplayground@gmail.com
We will update this page regularly as new development arises.
Please contact us with any questions, comments or concerns.
