Thurmont Elementary School Shares Message of Kindness and Celebrates New Playground

Theresa Dardanell On November 18, 2016, Mother Nature gave Thurmont Elementary students a perfect autumn day to hold their ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new playground and to share a message of kindness. All of the students and staff were joined by parents, PTA members, and a large group of visitors. The playground was funded by Frederick County Public Schools and installed by Playground Specialists, Inc. Principal Christina McKeever began the ceremony by introducing some of the guests who played a role in making this playground possible. Frederick County Public Schools representatives included: Dr. Alban, Superintendent; Dr. Markoe, Deputy Superintendent; Ray Barnes, Chief Operating Officer; James Hitchner, Curriculum Specialist; Mark Pritts, Director.  Also present were: PTA members, Traci Tatum, Kristen Daly, Jan Jones, Tina Rippeon, and Sherri Eichelberger; Wes Hamrick, Thurmont Commissioner; Theresa Dardanell, The Catoctin Banner; former Guidance Counselor Elizabeth Myers; and representatives from Playground Specialists, Inc.  “Thank you” banners made by the students were presented to the guests. The visitors joined together to cut the ceremonial ribbon, and the playground was officially ready to be enjoyed. Singing and dancing were a big part of the occasion. In addition to singing the school song, the students enthusiastically performed the Dance for Kindness. The organization, Life Vest Inside, provided the song “Keys to the World” and the choreography for the dance, which promotes acts of kindness. Thurmont Elementary students, along with Superintendent Dr. Alban, on the new playground. In addition to the slides, there are many other pieces for climbing, spinning and balancing.