It’s new, it’s colorful, and it’s sure to keep children entertained during recess.
Lakeville Elementary got an upgraded playground thanks to the hard work of Lakeville’s Parent School Council (PSC) and the community.
A volunteer group of approximately 50 parents, district staff-members, and community members worked to install the new play structure last Friday and Saturday.
Three different funding sources made the playground a reality: the Lakeville Elementary PSC, the Oxford School District, and additional funding from community donations.
The members of Lakeville’s PSC managed to raise over $10,000 in funds towards the new playground in just three months. District officials provided matching funds to purchase the new playground for a total of $22,513.
The district also paid just under $4,500 for the removal of the old equipment and site prep.
Sarah Umscheid, of Lakeville’s PSC board, said she was overwhelmed by the amount of support shown throughout the fundraising and installation processes.
“I just think it shows how much Oxford loves their kids in the community. We chose to have the parents involved in the building process and they really stepped up to the plate,” she said.
The previous play structure, built over 20 years ago, was said by many to be shabby, worn, and in need of some serious updates.
“This new playground is going to look amazing to the kids. It’s bigger. There’s more to climb on, there’s more to slide on, there’s more to do. So it’s definitely bigger and better for sure,” said Umscheid.

According to Lakeville Principal Kristy Gibson-Marshall, electing to build the structure as a community, rather than hiring help, came with several perks.
“We saved thousands of dollars by building it ourselves, so instead of putting that money into labor costs, we were able to put that money into a better play structure, which is huge… and it was great being able to spend time with my parents these past few days,” said Gibson-Marshall.
Gibson-Marshall said she was moved by the effort shown by the Lakeville community throughout the entire project.
“It’s incredible. The biggest gift a principal gets is their community and I am so lucky to have such a supportive community around me. I love this place,” said Gibson-Marshall.
Many students will get their first official playtime on the new playground when school starts Sept. 6.