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The small, but closely-knit Quilchena Elementary School community stepped up to help build a playground for all kids to enjoy. On hand for last Friday’s “official” opening were, front row, from left: Kirsten Wallace, Nichole Kusch, Ms. Powell (past and present school administrators) and back row, PAC members Ivan Tse, Brent Follett, Angela and Chris Dinnell and Alia Khan, school trustee Heather Larson, and PAC members Susan Tse and Lana Quay.

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Quilchena playground a unified effort

By Don Fennell

Published 10:20 PST, Tue November 30, 2021

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Collaboration and belonging have always been earmarks of Quilchena elementary, named to honour the First Nations settlement that was located nearby in the city’s west side.

In every endeavour, big or small, the goal is always to reflect the school motto of “Learning, Caring and Growing Together,” a mantra that each student and the closely-knit school community is proud to demonstrate daily. The “official” opening Friday of a new playground reflects that dedication.

“Building a new playground is a daunting undertaking for any school, particularly a small one like Quilchena (with a student population of less than 200),” says principal Nichole Kusch.

It was the vision and efforts of a dedicated PAC (Parent Advisory Council) and now-retired principal Janet Powell that planted the seeds for the new playground six years ago. Plans were created and revised with Habitat Systems (the innovative Burnaby-based playground equipment designer), as the team slowly worked to achieve its fundraising goal through a variety of initiatives. From a memorable winter craft night and movie nights to a successful pub night and a multicultural potluck bake sale, current PAC chair Ivan Tse and the team continued to work diligently to see the project to its completion. The final push came last spring when, with the help of past principal Kirsten Wallace, the district provided significant funding. Wallace advocated tirelessly on behalf of the school and the project.

“It was incredible to see parents, alumni, and even neighbours of the school quickly top up the district funds, allowing us to finally reach our fundraising goal last June,” says Tse.

After six years, the playground was finally built on a very soggy Oct. 16.

“With hearts full, over 30 parent and staff volunteers braved the elements to work together, assembling the bulk of the playground that day in the rain and mud. For all that our children have been through over the past many months of the pandemic, it is such a gift to see this playground finally here and ready for our children to enjoy,” says Tse.

The playground is a circuit design to create kinetic play and encourage kids to be active and get outdoors. The realized intent was to have a playground that included elements for all ages and abilities, so all could play together. Even the location was planned—adjacent to the previously-existing playground to create a more park-like environment with the garden, gathering space and picnic tables in between the playgrounds.

“We believe we created a space that not only enhanced the school experience for kids, but also would be a place for kids to enjoy all year round,” says Tse.