$187,000+ Investment Delivers Inclusive Play Space for Students of All Abilities
By Samuel Coffman—
SELMA, IN—Liberty-Perry Schools Corporation celebrated the grand opening of a new wheelchair-accessible playground at Selma Elementary School on August 10 at 3:30 p.m. This marked the completion of a $187,000+ investment designed to ensure every student has a place to play, connect, and belong.
“This playground reflects our commitment to ensuring every student feels welcomed, included, and valued,” said Superintendent Aaron Black. “Play is an important part of childhood, and every child deserves access to a space where they can learn, interact with their peers, and build lasting memories.”
District leaders, school board members, families, staff, and community supporters gathered at Selma Elementary, at 200 East Street in Selma, IN 47383, for a ribbon-cutting ceremony to officially open the space.
The new playground features 2,672 square feet of poured-in-place rubber safety surfacing, ramped access to elevated play components, shaded activity areas, sensory play panels, a ground-level spinner, and a fully fenced perimeter — all designed to allow students with differing mobility and sensory needs to play side by side with their classmates.
“Play is one of the most important ways children learn, build confidence, and develop friendships,” said Amy Everhart, Director of Special Education. “When students of differing abilities can play side by side, they build friendships, develop empathy, and learn that everyone belongs.”
Beyond its accessible design, the playground incorporates poured-in-place rubber surfacing throughout the entire play area — a smooth, cushioned surface that reduces the risk of injury from falls and eliminates the mobility barriers created by traditional wood mulch or loose fill, making the entire footprint navigable for wheelchairs, walkers, and adaptive mobility devices.
The playground’s cost was generously supported by the Delaware County Redevelopment Commission, Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority, Indiana University Health, Liberty-Perry Selma Town Endowment Fund, Muncie Tri Kappa, Lilly Endowment, and the Selma Elementary PTO. Thanks to these generous benefactors, Liberty Perry Schools was able to work with local contractors – continuing the district’s record of thoughtful community partnership in East-Central Indiana.
Hancock County’s Kinetic Recreation Design, LLC served as the exclusive builder of the playground. Fencing around the play space was supplied and installed by Marion County’s Timber Ridge Fence.
“Our goal is to remove barriers wherever possible and create educational environments that serve every student,” said Director of Operations Heath Dudley. “From the rubber surfacing to the ramped access points and shaded gathering areas, every design choice was made with inclusion in mind. This is a space where every student at Selma Elementary can participate fully.”
This is the only accessible playground of its kind in Delaware County. Following the ribbon-cutting ceremony, attendees were invited to tour the playground and see its features firsthand. The playground’s opening comes before the first day of school on August 12.
About Liberty-Perry Schools Corporation
Liberty-Perry Community Schools serves students across eastern Delaware County through Selma Elementary School, Selma Middle School, and Wapahani High School. The district is recognized for academic excellence, championship athletics, and a student-centered approach that helps every learner thrive. Liberty-Perry is committed to preparing students for success in college, careers, and life.
