A yearslong effort to create a more inclusive recess experience for students at Seaford Manor Elementary School came to life on April 24, when the Seaford School District unveiled an adaptive playground for them to use.
District administrators, Board of Education trustees, teachers, parents and students gathered for a ribbon-cutting ceremony, held in conjunction with the district’s second annual Vikings United Day — a celebration of unity, belonging and respect for individuals of all abilities.
The new playground, located between two wings of the school, was designed to ensure that all children, including those who use wheelchairs or benefit from sensory-friendly equipment, can fully participate in outdoor play.
“This playground represents years of thoughtful planning, collaboration and a shared commitment to our children and our school community,” Mary Catherine Culella-Sun, the district’s executive director for student support services, said. “We are proud to open a space designed for play, exploration and connection to increase their confidence and try new things.”
Culella-Sun said the idea dates back nearly eight years, when she recognized that some students were unable to access traditional playground equipment.
“We’re finally at that place where we were able to install a playground that provides access for every student,” she said. “Whether they use a wheelchair, seek sensory input or are sensitive to noise and change, there’s activities for all. It gives every child an outlet where they can enjoy movement, while removing both physical and social barriers. When everyone can access every piece of equipment, there are no barriers.”
The space features a variety of specialized equipment, including a ramp-accessible rocker, sensory swings and seated structures that rock and spin. A ground-level activity panel with gears and moving parts offers an option for students who prefer less motion.
Design considerations also included a smooth, rubberized safety surface for stability, as well as spacing that accommodates mobility devices and adult assistance.
Beyond accessibility, Culella-Sun emphasized the playground’s role in fostering inclusion.
“When we speak about inclusivity, it means you’re not identifying children by their abilities or inabilities,” she said. “It removes any stigma or lack of access socially. On some of the equipment, every child is using it the same way. Abilities become invisible, and they’re simply enjoying the experience together.”
Principal Joann Krudis said the playground reflects the school’s broader mission.
“Our new adaptive playground at Seaford Manor is more than just a space to play,” Krudis said. “It’s a place where every child feels seen, included and empowered.”
Planning for the project began about a year ago, with district staff working closely with a playground vendor to select equipment that would meet a wide range of needs. Construction started in the fall and was funded through the district’s general budget, with the design allowing for future expansion.
The impact will be especially meaningful for students in the district’s self-contained classes, Culella-Sun said, giving them opportunities for movement, regulation and social interaction alongside their peers.
The ribbon-cutting was held during Vikings United Day, which included social-emotional learning activities across all district schools. As part of the celebration, three students were recognized for their designs in the district’s T-shirt contest. Seaford Middle School eighth grader Ryan Kind was declared the winner, while Maria Monteiro Hildebrand and Lucy Malone were named runners-up.
Looking ahead, district officials plan to assess other playgrounds across the district to identify opportunities to expand inclusive features.
“This is a starting point,” Culella-Sun said. “We want to continue building on it.”
