NEAH BAY — A group of Makah tribal members is hoping to raise enough money to give elementary school children a place to play.
About four years ago, the aged playground at Neah Bay Elementary School was torn down to clear the way for Luke and Ada Markishtum Middle School, which opened in March 2003.
A nonprofit group of parents, elementary school staff, Makah elders and others formed the Elementary Playground Project last year to begin raising money for new playground equipment.
“We need to raise about $70,000 for the new playground,” Makah tribal elder Verna Bunn said.
“The kids need somewhere to play. All children should have a playground.”
About 166 children attend the elementary school.
Makeshift play areas
Currently, elementary school students play football and catch in an open field and play four-square, hopscotch and jump rope on a paved area.
When it is raining, children play in the school gymnasium.
There is one playground in Neah Bay, located along the waterfront, but it is too far from the school for children to use during recess, Bunn said.
The group has raised about $18,500 and is in the process of applying for several grants while increasing fund-raising efforts.
“I think it is important for the kids to be able to have a nice place to go and get some physical activity during the day,” said Neah Bay Elementary School Principal Alice Murner, “and also have a place to call their own.”
