Imagining Thoreau’s Backyard: The Possibilities Await!

Hello, Thoreau Community!

If you've walked by the parking lot or existing gaga pit lately for pick up, you know it's time for a change! Imagine this space transformed into a vibrant, nature-inspired playground where our children can play, explore, and connect with one another in new ways.

Here’s a (dare we say “spooky”) look at the current playground site:

Can you imagine a zip line, swings, climbing structures, and play zones, designed for children of all abilities to explore and enjoy? Thoreau’s Backyard: Grounds for Play will be more than a playground; it will be a cherished part of the school campus and neighborhood destination.

Community Excitement & School Committee Support

The excitement is building, and not just among parents and students! The School Committee recently previewed our plans, and they are very supportive. With their enthusiasm and commitment to the project, we’re off to the races— and ready to make this dream a reality! 

You can make this happen.

Bringing this vision to life will take the dedication and support of everyone in the Thoreau community. 

Gifts of all sizes are welcome! We need the entire Thoreau School community to make this project a reality. The fundraising initiative is kicking off. Become an early supporter!

Consider a personalized picket:  A gift of $500 will secure your name on one of the playground’s perimeter fence pickets. Buy one or buy many and leave your legacy at Thoreau’s Backyard! Imagine your family’s name woven into the heart of the playground, reminding visitors of this community effort.

Make the playground a reality with a leadership gift! Sponsorship opportunities are available: We need families to make a critical impact on the project by sponsoring major playground features. Elements like the gaga pit, accessible spinners, the zip line, swings, and climbing structures are available for sponsorship, giving you the chance to make a leadership-level impact. Interested? Let us know—we’d love to talk about how you can help build this incredible space. 

Join Us in Building Thoreau’s Backyard!

This playground isn’t just a project; it’s a shared vision for our children and community. Every gift, no matter the size, will bring us closer to creating a play space that will inspire generations of Thoreau students.

We are so grateful to everyone who has supported us so far and can’t wait to see what we’ll achieve together.

Ready to make your mark? Make your gift today and start imagining the possibilities.

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)