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Playground Equipment
Top: At play. Above: Ribbon cutting: Rachel Fortin, Katie Fortin, Joan Fortin, Ben Cross, Crystal Adams, Ethan Adams, Gil Perez. Photos  by Bewitching Imagery.



WOODSTOCK — After months of research and more than a year of fund-raising the Woodstock PTO Community Playground at the Woodstock Middle School opened recently, just in time for the start of school.
The new playground features pieces that encourage children to climb and spin. The centerpiece is a large, 13-foot tall climbing dome. Each side of the dome is a different climbing experience, and getting to the top is a challenge. The 5th through 8th graders that attend Woodstock Middle School have enjoyed using the new playground at recess.
The goal of the PTO Playground Committee was to raise $100,000. “The community support has been amazing,” said playground committee co-chair Crystal Adams.
“In addition to school and community fund-raisers, there have been many organizations, families, and businesses that have helped to bring this playground to Woodstock.” said PTO President Jen Beams. “This is what the PTO is about. We need the teachers AND the parents to bring fresh perspectives to our schools so we can offer our kids the best opportunity in grades Pre-K through 8th.
The event began with Woodstock First Selectmen Mike Alberts kissing a baby goat, fulfilling his part as winner of a Kiss the Goat playground fund-raiser held in June. Beams thanked the crowd and invited donors and children to help hold the large red ribbon that was unfurled in front of the playground. Enthusiastic children joined in a countdown from 5, and then Adams cut the ribbon and officially opened the playground.
Attendees enjoyed music donated by DJ Serge Saraidarian and cookies donated from Soleil & Suns Bakery. Children and adults tried out the playground equipment, the new benches, and enjoyed the cool evening playing and chatting with friends.

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