Play It Safe

Neil Hafley Elementary School students learn to use new playgrounds safely and effectively.

On December 9, Tevani Liotard, Physical Education Coordinator, and Melanie Smith, Neil Hafley Vice Principal, held training sessions to help Neil Hafley teachers and students correctly use the three new playgrounds on campus.

After several months of construction, Neil Hafley’s three new playgrounds are complete and ready for their grand opening. But before students can enter, Mrs. Smith thought that everyone using the equipment, should learn how to utilize them properly.

After expressing her idea to Liotard, the two planned out an entire morning to train every K-6 student and teacher on their respective playgrounds.

“I needed students to be taught how to use the equipment properly, teachers to know how to incorporate equipment into physical education, and our support staff to see how these structures can be used safely,” stated Mrs. Smith.

how one piece of equipment can be used several different ways, and how the entire playground can easily keep over 50 students active at once.

“These sesssions showed participants the proper way to climb through, up, and across the structures, as well as the safest way to exit,” added Mrs. Smith.

Teachers walked away with a packet of Liotard’s circuit plans, instructional ideas, and strategies to use during classroom and PE time.

“The best part of the day was teaching the students who felt that they could not use the equipment, or complete an activity. After watching them successfully finish the challenge, they would shout, ‘I did it!’ So AMAZING!”