The Poplar Bluff Kindergarten Center was able to significantly expand its playground last week with equipment designed for gross motor skill development through fundraising efforts. 

Three sets of monkey bars have been added to the outdoor play space east of the facility, with height gauged by students of varying sizes, and a balance beam was placed along with other pods. Longtime supporter of the district, Greg West, completed the installation of the equipment at a heavily-discounted price, according to education officials. 

“It’s more purposeful play, and we’re super excited,” Principal Jessica Thurston said. “Our pre-enrollment numbers are up for next year, and we’ve outgrown our playground.” 

Money was generated over the course of a couple years through events including the annual Fall Festival and Stonie Sausage fundraiser. T-shirts, yearbooks and classroom parties are also financed through the fundraisers, as parents of kindergartners are asked to pay for very little throughout the year, according to Thurston. She said the Kindergarten Center is “blessed” to be a part of such a supportive school community. 

### 

Cutline: Kindergartners test out the newly installed playground equipment on Tuesday, April 16, during physical education class.