Introducing: Thoreau’s Backyard
Hello, Thoreau Community!
We are thrilled to announce the launch of an exciting project that will transform the way children play at Thoreau Elementary. A brand-new playground is on the horizon, and we want you to be part of making it happen.
At the end of last year, a team of parents and school leaders formed the Thoreau Playground Committee to lead this effort as part of a broader, district-supported initiative to restore and enhance our campus. Our mission is to design, fund, and build a vibrant, inclusive play space that will benefit our students and the broader community for years to come. We are prioritizing:
Engaging, challenging equipment for children of all ages.
Inclusive design, ensuring all students can play together
A connection to nature that fosters exploration, discovery, and open-ended play
This is not just a playground—this is Thoreau’s Backyard: a place that honors the importance of outdoor play in children’s lives.
We are so excited about the possibilities for this project, and want to share with you this sneak peek that illustrates a vision of what this park can become:
Conceptual Illustration of Thoreau’s Backyard
Please note that while this image represents our current vision, the design will continue to evolve as we gather more feedback from all stakeholders.
But here’s the thing, we need your help. Bringing this vision to life will take more than just enthusiasm. Once we finalize the design, this project will depend on successful fundraising. Thoreau’s Backyard will only become a reality with the support and funding of our community.
This is our opportunity to create something that will benefit our children—and our community—for decades. We can’t wait to see what we’ll create, together.
Stay tuned for more updates! Please contact team@thoreausbackyard.com with questions.
Thoreau Playground Committee
Mitch Brooks, Chair (1st grade, William)
Justin Sparks, Principal
Cristina Aspuru Viciana (2nd Grade, Anabel)
Benjamin Klein (4th Grade, Max; 1st Grade, Nathan)
Michael LeFante (3rd Grade, Gabriel; K, Mila)
Erin Sahacic (4th Grade, Vanessa)
Matt Strauchon (1st Grade, John)
Carrie Rankin, School Committee Rep (5th Grade, Cooper; 3rd Grade, Leah; K, Micaela)
Courtney Ward (2nd grade, Zoe)