Equitable Access to the Outdoors

Funded Feb 20, 2024

Thank you so much for your generous support and helping our class get a new wagon! We've only had it for a couple of months but have already taken it on adventures big and small. In April, our new wagon made its inaugural trip to the Special Olympics Little Feet Meet. Having a safe space to ride in made it possible for some of our students to access a community celebration that would otherwise have been too overwhelming. And, for students with motor delays, having the option to ride in the wagon as needed meant they could still travel throughout the event with their classmates.

We have been very pleased and impressed by the stability and maneuverability of this wagon compared to our older model. Students are able to ride safely and smoothly on both paved trails and off-road environments like mulched areas and the soccer field. An added bonus has been that the students are able to help push the wagon themselves (when moving materials only) which takes teamwork and gives them a rewarding sense of responsibility.

Our new wagon's most important function is to help transport students quickly and safely out of the school building in an emergency. While it is not possible to stop for photos during an evacuation, I am very pleased to report that we were able to maneuver more smoothly and quickly when exiting the building and very much appreciated being able to secure the wagon with brakes when we arrived at our designated position outside.

This new wagon has been such a great addition to our classroom. On behalf of all of our current and future Bear Cubs - thank you, thank you, thank you!”

With gratitude,

Ms. Ryann