News Summary
Congress Elementary School in Sturgis, MI, has been honored as one of the top inclusive playgrounds in the U.S., securing the fourth position on a list by Soliant. The school’s commitment to equitable play access for all students was highlighted, following the completion of a major redesign funded by a $7.5 million millage. Alongside accessibility features, the playground integrates educational technology, ensuring a welcoming environment for every child, aligning with a broader initiative among Sturgis schools.
Sturgis, MI – Congress Elementary School has been recognized as one of the top inclusive playgrounds in the United States, being awarded the fourth spot on a prestigious list published by Soliant, a health care employment company. This accolade highlights the school’s commitment to ensuring that all students, regardless of their abilities, enjoy equitable access to recreational play.
The playground at Congress Elementary underwent a major redesign that was completed in 2019. The project was funded through a $7.5 million, 10-year building site and sinking fund millage that was approved by the Sturgis Public Schools district. This sinking fund allocates approximately $750,000 annually from local taxes to support various school improvements, including the creation of inclusive playgrounds.
There is a total of two Michigan schools featured on the list, with the Cooke School in Northville ranked seventh. The recognition of these schools emphasizes a growing trend toward inclusivity in children’s play environments across the nation.
Features and Accessibility
The redesigned Congress playground includes a range of popular play equipment such as swings, slides, and monkey bars, alongside accessibility ramps to facilitate movement for all children. To enhance the experience, all potential mobility barriers, such as curbs, have been removed, ensuring easy access for students with disabilities.
The surface of the playground is made from accessibility-friendly tile, which provides added durability and ease of replacement if necessary. In a tech-savvy approach, QR codes have been integrated into playground equipment to connect users with educational curriculums and usage instructions, further enhancing the learning experience during playtime.
Alongside traditional play options, the Congress playground integrates sensory play opportunities and features structures that cater to children with varying abilities. The initiative aims to foster connections, build confidence, and promote healthy habits among students, creating a nurturing environment for development.
Community and Collaboration
The Congress playground is part of a larger district-wide initiative, with all six of the elementary schools in Sturgis benefiting from inclusive playground designs. This community-centric approach not only enhances play opportunities for children but also signifies collaborative efforts aimed at prioritizing student welfare.
State Rep. Aaron Miller attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the playground, demonstrating support for both the new facility and the sinking fund initiative. The event showcased enthusiastic feedback from students, who expressed excitement about their new recreational space. School board president Scott Boland noted that the new playground marks a significant improvement over the old one, reflecting the school district’s ongoing commitment to enhancements that benefit its students.
Vince LaPorte, the principal of Congress/Wenzel, acknowledged the important role of community investment in facilitating improvements in student resources, specifically through the sinking fund. He emphasized how this playground and its features can provide equal opportunities for all students to thrive.
Future Improvements
The Sturgis Public Schools Board of Education has recently discussed additional capital improvement projects, suggesting continued progress and enhancements within the district. Updates on these initiatives can be accessed through the district’s website, providing transparency and engagement with the local community.
As schools recognize the importance of inclusive play environments, the success of Congress Elementary serves as a vital example of how thoughtful design and community support can create a space where every child is welcome to participate in play, learning, and development.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Novi Unveils Inclusive Playground We Rock the Spectrum, Promoting Joy and Friendship for All Kids
Westland Gears Up for a Brand New $12M Park
Additional Resources
- Sturgis Journal: One of America’s Top Inclusive Playgrounds
- MLive: Playground in Southwest Michigan Named One of Most Inclusive
- Second Wave Media: Sturgis Waterpark
- Google Search: Sturgis Public Schools improvements
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Inclusive Playground
Author: STAFF HERE NORTHVILLE WRITER
The NORTHVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENorthville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Northville, Wayne County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Summer Concert Series, Tunes on Tuesday, and the Northville Farmers Market. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Northville Chamber of Commerce and Northville Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in automotive, software, and retail that power the local economy such as Gentherm, Reliable Software, and Attendance on Demand. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREDetroitMI.com, HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
