Written By Alan Good
MCGILLIVRAY - McGillivray Public School, located just north of Parkhill, is a small community-oriented school. Challenges that might appear taxing to some schools are more distressing here as there are fewer students and families are mostly farmers.
Yet, the Thames Valley District School Board (TVDSB) deemed their play equipment unsafe and removed all the apparatus, leaving parents in a sudden flurry to find new climbers.
Faced with this new challenge, the estimated cost is staggering to this small community. They need to raise 200,000—$1,600 per student—under very strict guidelines from the school board.
The old equipment has since been carried away as it was 30 years old and deemed unsafe. Though the TVDSB made the decision to remove the equipment, leaving the students without, and determine the final project’s look, they don’t provide any funds.
A committee was struck and have applied for grants but are mostly depending on families and friends for funding. The Home & School donated $30,000 and the committee intend to raise $55,000 by the end of the year to start phase 1, providing equipment for the primary students. The cost all in of that stage is estimated at $85K and the goal is to have it usable by April 2026.
Phase 2 & 3 include providing kindergarten and senior play areas with new climbers, at a total cost of $100k.
McGillivray is a little school with a population of 125 students, but a big heart. Many parents and grandparents have attended McGillivray over the years.
“Size has never equated to our value,” stated Sarah Mollard, one of three on the playground committee.
For example, the McGillivray Central boys and girls volleyball team were regional champions. They went on to end 4th with the TVDSB A division, which is smaller schools. First time ever they feel McGillivray has ever succeeded this far.
“People in the city have no clue where this small vibrant school is,” said Marion Robinson, local resident with grandkids attending the school.
If you would like more information or to donate, email them at: mcgillivrayplayground@gmail.com.
