Outdoor recess at MacArthur Early Childhood Center in Macomb is about to get a lot more fun thanks to the Macomb Educational Foundation (MEF) and the MacArthur/Lincoln/Edison PTO.
MacArthur Early Childhood Special Education Teacher Jennifer Clark recently asked for $650 for new items for the north playground at the Pre-K center, and the groups provided funding to get some updated play items, with MEF chipping in $350 and the parent-teacher organization adding another $300.
'In 2023, when the addition to the school was underway our larger playground was closed so we used the north playground and bike track. While we were out with our kids, we saw how limited the equipment was. We just had two slides and a caterpillar climber, and we noticed the students were getting a little bored,' Clark explained. 'Last year, when a permanent fence was installed around that playground, we continued to use that playground as it was more secure. As it's a smaller playground, the younger students and our students in the special education classrooms often used this playground for their gross motor time, which is 30 minutes daily. This smaller space allows for more independent choices and is not as crowded as the larger playground. We saw the need for more inclusive equipment, so we chose some items that are also good for students with sensory needs.'
With the money from the two organizations, MacArthur purchased a playhouse, picnic table, mini trampoline, a sensory swivel chair, an outdoor grill/kitchen playset and a teeter-totter, Clark shared.
'The items on the playground can be used by every student at MacArthur,' she added. 'Speaking for myself, my students have greatly enjoyed the trampoline, grill and house so far. I've seen more spontaneous play using these things during our outside time. We give a big thank you to the MEF and PTO for supporting the youngest students in the district.'
About the MEF
The Macomb Educational Foundation (MEF) was established as a nonprofit corporation in 1992 to raise and distribute funding for educational opportunities that might otherwise be unattainable due to budgetary constraints. The Foundation aims to support efforts that complement, enrich, and enhance educational programs and opportunities within Macomb Community District No. 185.
Led by Former Assistant Superintendent of Schools Louis Battin, MEF's original goal, which remains true today, is to support the children and educators of Macomb Schools by providing additional assistance for academic and extracurricular programs, classroom supplies, and more.
The foundation is managed by a Board of Directors composed of 15 voting members, including community members and faculty.
Current MEF Board members include Karen Severs, Shelley Kreps, Jerry Cremer*, Nigel Graham, Bess Thompson (president), Rooney Dively, Lisa Dennis, Greg Butler, Sandy Taylor, and Nick Knowles. Pam Burnham, Liz Hardisty, Mary Ann Severs, Trish Cramer Doll and Hailea Hadsall who represents Macomb teachers.
Funds are acquired through private and corporate donations, memorials, bequests, and other fundraising projects.
Since its inception, more than $200,000 has been distributed by the Macomb Educational Foundation for projects benefiting students at MacArthur School, Lincoln School, Edison School, Macomb Junior High and Macomb Senior High.
* Cremer was an original board member when the foundation began in 1992.
