<body><div>RIVERSIDE – Exploring a playground specifically built for all abilities, and riding on a swing for the very first time will be the highlights for students at Glen Avon South Elementary School (4382 Pyrite Street, Jurupa Valley) at the grand opening ceremony of the adaptive playground at Glen Avon South Elementary School at 9:30 a.m. on Tuesday, October 29, 2024.<figure><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=3kSxre_0wPhanlk00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=3kSxre_0wPhanlk00" width="374" height="349" ></figure>The site represents the third of four inclusive playgrounds constructed by the Riverside County Office of Education that feature wheelchair swings, ramps to interactive play panels, sensory tricycle paths, outdoor musical instruments, a sensory garden, and other custom features that provide a safe and inclusive playground experience for students—regardless of their abilities.In September, an inclusive playground opened at Nuview South Elementary School in the Nuview Union School District. In 2021, RCOE introduced the first inclusive playground in the county on the campus of La Granada South Elementary School in the Alvord Unified School District.“Leadership is about meeting the moment, and this inclusive playground is a powerful example of educators meeting the moment for students of all abilities,” said Riverside County Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Edwin Gomez, at the launch of the inclusive playground at Nuview Elementary School on September 25, 2024. “Thank you to our Operational Support Services and Special Education teams and construction partners for providing opportunities for students to play in a space where they can thrive.”Construction on the playground at Glen Avon South began in the summer of 2024 as part of a larger modernization project that will start in the summer of 2025. Guiding principles for the design and construction of the project were centered on inclusivity and accessibility for all children in the county:<ul><li>Universal Design: Equipment and layout are designed to be usable by everyone, regardless of physical, sensory, or cognitive challenges.</li><li>Variety of Play Experiences: Adaptive playgrounds offer a wide range of play options, including sensory-rich activities, tactile experiences, and areas for quiet reflection.</li><li>Safety and Accessibility: Surfaces are typically smooth and even to accommodate wheelchairs and mobility devices, while equipment may include features like wheelchair swings and adaptive climbers.</li><li>Social Inclusion: Design encourages interaction among children of all abilities, promoting friendships and social skills.</li><li>Engagement with Nature: Natural elements are included for sensory experiences and imaginative play along with ADA-accessible gardens to further enhance the nature experience.</li></ul>Design and construction partners included PBK Architects and GDL Best Contractors. About the Riverside County Office of Education (RCOE)RCOE is a service agency supporting the county’s 23 school districts and 500+ schools that serve nearly 430,000 students—more than the student population of 17 states. RCOE services include administrative support to districts and charter schools, programs for preschool, special education, pregnant minor, correctional, migrant, and vocational students. In addition, the organization provides professional training, support, and resources for more than 18,000 teachers, administrators, and staff, throughout the 7,000 square miles of Riverside County. Learn more at www.rcoe.us.</div></body>

Mountain View, CA

NewsBreak

Ribbon-cutting ceremony will serve as grand opening to inclusive playground constructed by Riverside County Office of Education for students in Jurupa Unified School District

RIVERSIDE – Exploring a playground specifically built for all abilities, and riding on a swing for the very first time will be the highlights for students at Glen Avon South Elementary School (4382 Pyrite Street, Jurupa Valley) at the grand opening ceremony of the adaptive playground at Glen Avon South Elementary School at 9:30 a.m. on Tuesday, October 29, 2024.