During the brand-new playground ribbon cutting ceremony in February, Salt River Elementary School Acting Principal Bryan “Coach” McCleney spoke from the heart about how important it is for all children to feel valued and welcomed. 

“About three years ago we started this project. It included staff, a lot of students, parents, and Community organizations,” he began. “This didn’t happen by one person; it happened by everybody. So, we all came together and said, ‘What can we do to ensure all of our students can play together as a community?’”

The result? An all-inclusive playground for all. 

The all-new playground allows for all children, including those with limited mobility, to experience a fun time while on campus attending classes amongst friends and family at Salt River Schools. The school held the ceremony on February 12 shortly after a student run and walk event with SRPMIC President Martin Harvier and others. 

“This is an opportunity for us to say that everybody here counts, and everybody’s voice is heard. Since everybody’s voice was heard, this was the result,” he added as he motioned over to Wolf Brown, Tasha Antone and their daughter, Harmony Brown. 

Designated as the ribbon cutter to officially open the new playground, Harmony was also joined by Wylie and Violet Wolf, from The Great Wolf Lodge. 

Following McCleney’s introduction, Harvier provided the welcoming to attendees to the ceremony. “I think the word was ‘inclusive’ and me being a grandparent to a grandson with special needs, I know Harmony’s parents are here and I’m sure they’re probably more excited than her,” said Harvier. “It is very difficult to have a special needs child and just like Coach B [McClenley] said, if they can’t play with the others, it really hurts.”

Afterward, Harvier shared with guests that Harmony has continued to grow up in the SRPMIC, as she and her parents are frequent attendees of various Community events. “I’m happy for Harmony, her parents, and I’m happy for the school. Thank you,” finished Harvier. 

Surrounded by her parents, it was time for Harmony to officially open the new playground. Grabbing the ceremonial scissors and cutting the ribbon with ease, she helped usher in new era in the SRPMIC and Salt River Schools in which each person now has an all-inclusive playground grow up in and enjoy.