(Courtesy Photo) City Councilor Matt O’Malley (center) joins students, parents and supporters at the Curley K-8 School’s field fund-raising event May 18.
The Curley K-8 School at 493 Centre St. is trying to raise $250,000 to put an artificial turf field and track on an asphalt lot kids are forced to use for recess.
The 14,000-square-foot paved area tucked against the school’s south side is “very unsafe,” according to school parent council member Susan Elsbree.
“A lot of kids have cut themselves playing,” she said.
The fund-raising effort kicked off with a May 18 cleanup event at the school with City Councilor Matt O’Malley, parents and officials from the school and the Mayor’s Office.
An anonymous donor already gave $50,000. The school is seeking more donations from school insiders as well as residents and local businesses. Organizers will figure out a way to recognize major donors, Elsbree said.
The field is the second phase of a 2008 master plan to improve the school grounds. The first phase was completed three years ago and included new green space and an “outdoor classroom” along the north side of the building.
For more information about the plans and the fund-raising, see playingfield.curleyk8.com.