Cole Manor Elementary Raising Funds For New Playground

Cole Manor Elementary School in East Norriton is working with its students and teachers to raise money for a much-needed new playground, and, according to Lead Teacher Iris Rolon, the school and the community should look forward to fundraising events as everyone comes together for the children.

According to Rolon, they are trying to raise $48,000 for two playgrounds, one for younger students and one for older students, by the end of the 2013-14 school year.

Right now, they are focusing on raising the $23,000 needed to erect one of playgrounds and to replace basketball backboards. 

While Cole Manor’s current playgrounds are up to code, they were built for a school that, according to Rolon, was meant for 300 students and not the approximately 540 students that they have now after an influx of people moving into the district. 

The current playground has a slide, a swing-set for six children and two monkey bars. “That’s it. That is our playground. For 540 kids,” Rolon said.

She was the impetus of their campaign to obtain a new playground for the children, who all raised their hands and wanted to help, she said. Rolon created a parent-teacher committee for the fundraising efforts and was cheered to see the parents’ enthusiasm.

“It’s such a big project. We’re not in an affluent area in Norristown but it makes it even more amazing that the school body and parents have come together to work,” Rolon said.

They are fundraising in different ways. Every week they have a lemonade stand and a popcorn sale. The public can look forward to a family bingo night, and more. Rolon, a runner, said that their big project will be a 5K run in April.

Those who wish to help can contact Iris Rolon, Lead Teacher, at 610-275-5525 or irolon@nasd.k12.pa.us about volunteer opportunities, donations and more.