KYLE MURPHYStaff Writer

As the school system prepares for the completion of its Early Childhood Education Center, the Tullahoma City Schools Board of Education approved of the purchase of playground equipment for the center for over $45,000.

In its June meeting, Finance Director Hank Jordan addressed the board and said in preparation for the new playground at the Early Childhood Education Center, Dr. Wendy Wilkerson, TCS Director of Special Education, proposed using a portion of the school district’s State Special Education Preschool Grant to fund the purchase and installation of four pieces of equipment for the play space. The Early Childhood Education Center is part of the Jack T. Farrar Elementary School construction project where the old building will converted into the education center.

Jordan added that Wilkerson collaborated with the directors and staff from the 619 Pre-Ks at CSS and East Lincoln, and Little Cats to determine the equipment needs.

He said, if approved by the board, the playground equipment will be purchased from Elevate Play Collective, the same vendor that is supplying the new playground equipment for the new Farrar school.

“The cost of equipment is $25,404.80, with the installation and mulch totaling an additional $20,533.00, bringing the total project to $45,937.80,” Jordan said.

He said after reviewing the quote and consulting with Wilkerson, he and staff recommended the approval of the Elevate Play Collective proposal for $45,937.80, which would be fully funded by the State Special Education Preschool Grant.

When opened for discussion, board member Rosie Graham asked when the equipment will be put in, and Director of Schools Dr. Catherine Stephens said it would go in as soon as it is available. Jordan added the funds would be allocated by June 30 and the equipment would be installed in the fall. Graham also asked for and received clarification that the equipment will used for preschoolers.

With no further discussion, the school board unanimously approved the purchase.