Students and staff swinging on the new saucer swing.

Thanks to a large group of community partners, Woodfin Elementary is bursting with more joy and excitement after a project years in the making is finally complete.

The school has a brand new playground as part of a community effort, an addition students can enjoy for years to come. On Thursday, May 18, 2023, teachers and staff looked on as students played on the new equipment, some even with tears of joy, watching students laugh and have fun. 

“The students love the playground, they are finding creative ways to play with their peers,” said first grade teacher Rebecca McDaris. “I love seeing the students discover new skills when playing during recess now.” 

After just a week of running around on the playground, teachers have noticed the difference it has made for their school. 

“This project has shown our students how much they are cared for, and that their happiness is important,” said first and second grade teacher Michele Luther. “We feel the love that the community has poured into our school over the years to make this dream possible.”

“It was astounding to see how much of our community came together for the betterment of our school and students,” Ms. McDaris said. “They poured love into our little school and it has been felt by everyone.”

For students this is a moment they will never forget, and each day they look forward to being outside. 

“It’s amazing because there are a lot of things to do on the playground,” said fourth grader Coryn. 

“I love our new playground the most at this school,” said fourth grader Camera. 

“This is the best playground ever,” said second graders Maddie and Charlotte. 

“The swings are the most fun because I learned how to swing,” said first grader Ramora. 

A special thanks for all the love and support of the students as well as the new playground goes to: Buncombe County Schools (BCS), Town of Woodfin, Reynolds Mountain Residents, Olivette Residents, Versant Residents, The Woodfin 5K, and University of North Carolina at Asheville Bulldog Buddies. 

Students having fun on the new playground equipment.