05/18/2026
SBE Playground Update
On behalf of our SBE playground Committee, we would like to give you an official update. But first, we would like to thank all of the wonderful people and businesses who have so generously donated to get our elementary school, of almost 500 children, to get a playground. You truly are amazing in every single way! As we promised, we are working on getting you the official recognition you deserve. We will be getting a custom-made die cut black bear to stand at the playground with your name on plaques according to your donation amount. Now, for the facts….
1. The SBE playground committee was formed in October of 2024, once we found out our children would not have a playground at the new school. We all are volunteers trying our best to help.
2. Our goal from the very beginning was to be TRANSPARENT.
3. We have continuously invited the community and teachers/parents of SBE to attend meetings. We have sent out flyers to the entire school and post on social media about meetings. Unfortunately, we only get a handful of parents, one or two teachers and our principal to show up.
4. We have worked very hard to try to raise money for our children to have a playground. So far, we have raised about $150,000.
5. Every single dollar that is donated goes to South Branch Elementary School, in a special fund only for the playground.
6. We have to go by many standards, get at least 3 quotes from various businesses, and even get audited with the school. Our committee is solely in charge of fundraising. We have no personal access to this money.
7. During meetings, our treasurer, hands out a detailed treasurer report that shows all donations and spending for the playground. We would be happy to give these reports to anyone upon request.
8. We have felt a sense of URGENCY to get our kids as much as we can so we try to spend the donations in a sensible, but quick manner so that our children have something to play on at school.
9. So far, we have bought one play system, 12 swings (8 are at the school waiting to be installed), and multiple playground balls, jump ropes, etc. with a storage unit to store them. So far, we have spent a total of about $100,000.
10. Our “Reach for the Stars Goal” is $600,000 and we hope to one day achieve it.
Once again, thank you to everyone who has helped us so far! If you have any questions or would like to help our playground committee, please reach out to me at the number below.
Best regards,
Brandy Korzun
SBE Playground Committee President
(304)671-0858
