Students, staff, and community members are celebrating the completion of a new playground at Father Gorman School; built in record time after a fire destroyed the old structure.
Local businesses, school staff and city workers brought this project to life by creating a space uniquely designed for students.
Nigel McCarthy, director of education at the Lloydminster Catholic School Division, expressed his gratitude for the community’s dedication, highlighting their combined efforts. During an update, he praised everyone who came together.
“This morning (Oct. 22), we poured concrete with a fantastic crew from across the city. After lunch, we’ll add the finishing touches with rockers, thanks to our last donors,” said McCarthy.
The board is extremely grateful to those who made donations.
Meanwhile, principal Scott Young, who oversaw much of the playground’s development, stressed the emotional journey of this project.
“What started as a really sad thing and turned into something bigger and better,” he said.
Additionally, Young observed the children’s engagement with the construction, interacting with workers and watching each stage unfold.
“For them, this has been better than TV,” he said.
Young says the children could see their interests reflected in the final design, from large climbing structures to areas resembling giant Lego builds.
Meanwhile, Mayor Gerald Aalbers also spoke about the playground’s importance to the community, explaining its value goes beyond school hours.
“It’s not just for the kids; it’s for the entire neighbourhood,” he said. “Families can come together here after school, on weekends, or even during those beautiful summer evenings and reasonably warm winter days.”
Aalbers actively welcomed the strong local support, with non-profits, businesses, and city officials stepping up to contribute to the project.
“When our community faces challenges, everyone steps up,” he said.
Saskatchewan MLA Colleen Young attended in the middle of her re-election campaign.
“The speed at which this came together is amazing,” she said, adding that playgrounds are essential spaces for children’s physical activity and social growth.
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