x
Breaking News
More () »

Students taking advantage of adaptive playground as Wilkes-Barre city looks to build another

A focus on accessibility is taking shape all across the Diamond City.

WILKES-BARRE, Pa. — It was fun in the fresh air at Kirby Park in Wilkes-Barre. The swings bringing out all the smiles in kids from Wilkes-Barre Area's autistic support classes, as they experienced the adaptive playground. 

"The kids are loving it. There's kids of all abilities so there's something for everyone to do," said Autistic support teacher, Molly McAndrew.

The playground was put in Kirby Park about two years ago, built completely off of donations. 

"Now what you're looking at is over $600,00 in voluntary donations that built this park, two ziplines. And everything in here was built with ADA compliance. I'm very proud of this," said Mayor George Brown. 

The Mayor even took part in the fun himself. 

"It's cold out but you know what? We're having a great time and I love pushing kids on the zipline," added the Mayor.

Wilkes-barre Area's transitional classroom teacher, Paul Hoda says there's been a focus on making the city more adaptive. He says it makes his students' transition into the real-world, a little easier.

"Just being able to see what is available for them in the community just opens their eyes to new experiences. This class is based on experiential learning. So any new experiences they get are going to benefit them later in their life," said Hoda.

As these swings provide much more than just smiles for these students. 

"Even just being part of the community is a huge skill for them to learn. So stuff like this is perfect," added McAndrew.

Mayor Brown says the city is currently taking donations for a similar playground to be built at The Bog near Evercor field in the Miner's Mills section of Wilkes-Barre.

Before You Leave, Check This Out