Safer and more Inclusive playground now in place at Lax Kxeen School as part of PRPA investment

There's lots of space for play at the new playground at
Lax Kxeen School on Prince Rupert's east side
(photo from PRPA)

Students of Lax Kxeen elementary and children in the Hays Cove Circle area now have a new playground in place to explore, that following the latest investment from the Prince Rupert Port Authority's Community Investment Fund.

The new playground for the east side school was built through a partnership between the Prince Rupert Port Authority’s (PRPA) Community Investment Fund, Lax Kxeen Elementary School Parent Advisory Committee, School District 52, and other local supporters.

They approached its development with the goal of creating an accessible outdoor asset for the benefit of the school, as well as families in the community. 

The school’s existing playground equipment was not suited to people of all physical abilities and the Committee took the initiative to create a more inclusive space.

“Having a safe and accessible outdoor space is imperative to making all members of our school community feel welcome and included. Thanks to the support of the Prince Rupert Port Authority’s Community Investment Fund, we are able to give children of all physical abilities a place to play,” -- Natalie McLean, Lax Kxeen Elementary School Parent Advisory Committee Vice Chair

One of the many features of the new playground at
Lax Kxeen School on Prince Rupert's east side
(photo from PRPA)

Towards the design of the new equipment, the group received guidance from  School District 52’s Occupational Therapist James Wintle, who selected equipment that could be used by people with a range of physical abilities. 

Among some of the features of the new apparatus, the play space includes a carousel with features that allow people with different mobility issues - whether they require a wheelchair, walker, or cane - to enjoy the equipment in the same way as those who do not require support. 

Likewise, the recycled rubber material used on the surface of the playground can be navigated on foot or on wheels, meaning strollers can easily roll anywhere. 

Mr. Wintle observed as to how the newest addition to the Lax Kxeen environment will benefit all children.

“During the pandemic, we’ve seen children experience more sedentary time because many activities have been cancelled. This playground is getting kids back outside, excited to move their bodies and providing them with opportunities to target different muscles and develop their motor planning skills,”

That was a theme that was also noted by the Prince Rupert Port Authority President and CEO  Shaun Stevenson who welcomed the chance to participate in the initiative.

“We recognize that learning through play is an essential part of childhood development and by building safe spaces like the Lax Kxeen Elementary School accessible playground, we are creating chances for kids to strengthen their bodies and minds alongside their peers,” -- Shaun Stevenson, President and CEO of the Prince Rupert Port Authority.

The PRPA committed 70 thousand dollars from its Community Investment Fund towards support for the near 250,000 project. The latest round of funding that has seen the Fund invest $430 thousand into six playgrounds in Prince Rupert and Port Edward.

School District 51 will manage and provide for the maintenance of the Lax Kxeen addition.

You can learn more about the new playground and check out some of the many features of it from this information release from the Prince Rupert Port Authority

For more notes on past Community investment from the Prince Rupert Port Authority see our archive page here.

More notes on School District 52 can be explored here.