Riverside PTA

 Play Your Part

1.   Why does Riverside need an updated Playground?

The main objective of this project is to create a space that can be used equally by children of all abilities.  Currently, individuals with special needs are limited to just a few activities.  We hope to update the entire space to be more inclusive.  The PTA has determined that it is most cost effective to make improvements and complete needed maintenance work at the same time.

2. Is the current playground at Riverside safe?

The playground as it exists today is very safe for the students to use.  The proposed layout addresses the issue of grass growth, which is particularly difficult to maintain due to the current drought.  It also improves the mobility and play experiences for all students.

3.  Can Gwinnett County help us with these improvements?

We are working closely with Gwinnett County and will continue this relationship with the Grounds Department to be certain we are meeting all safety requirements.  Gwinnett County could potentially help with some aspects of our project, but they will be limited.  We will continue to seek additional funding through grants, however, the majority of the funding will come from the Riverside community.

4. My child is a 5^th grader at Riverside.  Why should I support this project?

All families living in the Riverside area should support an updated playground.  The quality of the schools within a community is a primary factor in determining the desirability and stability of that community and as a result, the value of the homes in the area.      

5.  When will the project start, and how long will it take to complete?

Work will start in the summer of 2009, and we estimate that it will take three years to complete the comprehensive plan.  The project will be broken into three phases. Phase one includes a walking track around the perimeter of the playground.  Phase two will include grading of the playground and installation of new playground equipment.  The final phase will feature construction of an outdoor pavilion and landscaping.

6. What if Riverside PTA raises too many or too few funds?

The PTA Playground Committee will determine which components of the project get top priority and can be completed with the funds we have raised.  If not enough funds are raised, the overall project will be reassessed to determine what should be postponed or eliminated from the project. In the event we raise too much money, additional funds will accelerate the implementation of components from the next phase. We plan to make improvements as money is raised, so there will be no carryover of Playground funds to the next year’s phase.

7. How can I contribute and show my support for the Playground Renovation?

The first opportunity to support our project is to sponsor your child in the Boosterthon Fun Run fundraiser on October 9th.  Our goal is to have 100% student participation in this exciting event. 

8. Can I donate goods or services to support the Playground Renovation?

Yes!  The Playground Committee is looking for any businesses that are interested in being part of our project.  Services that we are in need of include landscaping, grading, building supplies and grant opportunities.

9. Where can I get more information?

More information on the project can be found at the Riverside PTA website: www.riversidepta.org.  Please contact Nancy Morgan at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it or Janette Derucki at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it if you have additional questions.