5 Strategies to Increase the Fun and Safety of an Elementary Schoolyard

Elementary school administrators and teachers face significant challenges, some of which were unheard of 30 years ago. In fact, these challenges can necessitate the involvement of parents. For example, at the start of a school year, elementary students typically have to undergo training in the event that a potential shooter enters the premises.

In light of these challenges, school administrators and teachers, together with parents, should strategize to make the school environment safer and more enjoyable for children.

1. Install Secure Fencing

It has become more challenging, in recent years, to completely secure public buildings. With that said, there are steps that can be taken to enhance the overall safety and security of an elementary school campus.

When it comes to enhancing the security of an elementary school, that objective starts on the grounds of the school. A crucial step that all elementary schools should consider taking is the installation of a relatively formidable fence to lessen the odds of unauthorized entry onto the premises.

If possible, a fence should encompass as much of the school grounds, including the schoolyard, as possible. Parents may need to drop their children off outside the fence, as will bus drivers. There should be a limited number of access points (or gates) through the fence. When not staffed by an adult, the gates should remain locked.

2. Install Other Security Barriers

At the time of this writing, no major incident involving a vehicle intentionally driving into a school building has occurred in the United States. The fact that this type of life-threatening incident has not occurred does not mean that it is not possible.

Thus, when considering perimeter security at an elementary school, consideration should be given to the installation of other security barriers that will block the advance of a vehicle on a pathway to collide with the building. In addition, added security measures need to be implemented to protect against the advance of a motor vehicle onto an external area occupied by students and others, including a playground.

Addressing this type of additional external security can involve the installation of security barriers that include:

• large concrete planters
• concrete posts
• metal barriers

3. Separate Age-Appropriate Playground Equipment

In addition to improving security at and around an elementary school, attention should also be paid to ensuring that an elementary school playground is outfitted with safe, durable, interesting, and age-appropriate equipment.

Those in charge of planning an elementary schoolyard may want to consider breaking up the placement of playground equipment into age-based zones. A simple delineation between ages is important. Typically these areas are separated by kindergarten through third grade and another area for students in fourth through sixth grade.

4. Install Bike Racks

Some elementary students bike to school. Appropriate bike racks should be added to the grounds, ideally inside the previously discussed fence line. There is a broad range of bike racks available today, including options in some unique designs that can enhance the overall look of a schoolyard and associated grounds.

5. Installing More Trash and Recycling Receptacles

A majority of elementary schools in the United States have at least some focus on environmental issues. Indeed, a growing number of school buildings are becoming greener and environmentally friendly.

Taking steps towards a greener elementary school is accomplished through the placement of receptacles on the grounds. By having both trash or landfill receptacles (and others designated for recycling) conveniently placed, students, teachers and others will be more mindful about disposing of waste materials.

By incorporating these strategies and equipment into an overall plan, an elementary school will end up with a truly safer and more kid-friendly school yard. The process of planning for and implementing these strategies also provides an ideal way of bringing together students, school employees, and parents for the achievement of a common goal.