Superior Central School’s playground may date back to 1990, but a fresh chapter is taking shape — one built on student input, community grit and a vision of inclusive play.
With a price tag of $213,000, a brand-new elementary playground isn’t a modest endeavor for the small district.
But Susan Korpi, the district’s elementary principal, and a determined group of students, staff, families and local partners have already raised nearly $125,000 since launching the campaign in fall 2023.
Their goal: to install a stateof the-art, accessible playground that benefits not only students during recess but the broader community for years to come.
“Our current playground has served us well for 34 years, but it’s time,” Korpi said. “Research in recent decades has shown us how important inclusive, sensory- informed play is. This new design will have climbing elements, spinners, swings — including a Buddy Swing for students with low trunk control — and features with varied textures to support kids with sensory input needs.”
Students helped shape the plan from the start. The elementary pupils were observed during recess, polled on preferences and even voted on the color scheme.
Middle and high school students jumped in with a “Pie Your Teacher” fundraiser and bucket raffle ticket sales, while younger students raised money for the Buddy Swing through a penny war.
“I got involved because I wanted my son — he’s in third grade — to be able to enjoy it before he moves on,” PTO member and parent Sammy DuVall said. “It’s been amazing seeing how the whole community has stepped up. Every chocolate sale, every share on social media, every donation — it’s all helping make this real.”
The playground’s design intentionally addresses accessibility and inclusivity. ADA-compliant transfer points on climbing structures, a focus on low-impact swings and sensory-friendly components all aim to welcome children of all abilities.
But the project isn’t just about play. Korpi envisions the playground as a new gathering space for everyone — from 4-H clubs to hikers passing through the area.
“Superior Central School District is the hub of our small towns, and we are proud to be the gathering place for our families and community members,” Korpi said. “I hope our playground serves as a place where kids can be kids and community members will put down their devices and connect with each other.”
Despite the widespread enthusiasm, fundraising hasn’t been without challenges. Korpi noted the high costs of modern playground equipment and installation. The district has sought creative solutions — tapping into its sinking fund, writing grants and leaning into grassroots efforts.
Major sponsors so far include the Ray and Peg Hirvonen Charitable Foundation, the Alger Regional Community Foundation, PotlatchDeltic and UPPCO. Several other grant applications are pending, and fundraising continues with events like last weekend’s PTO Spring Carnival. Donations are also being accepted via mail and through a GoFundMe page.
“Our timeline is ambitious but doable,” Korpi said. “We’re planning to order the playground at the end of April. Even if we don’t hit the full amount, we’ll adjust the design to fit what we have. Our goal is professional installation over the summer and a ribbon-cutting picnic before the 2025-26 school year.”
DuVall added, “Susan Korpi has worked tirelessly to try and see her vision come to life. It will be so great once we are able to see the kids playing on this new playground.”
For those who’d like to donate, checks can be made out to Superior Central School with “Playground Fund” in the memo line and mailed to P.O. Box 148, Eben Junction, MI 49825. Online donations can be made at gofundme. com/f34b502f.
