As children prepare to go “back” to school – whether in-person, virtual or a hybrid of the two, we know that schools and educators are developing varied plans for reopening. No matter what variation of learning – online or in-person – schools and parents offer for the upcoming school year, Playworks is here to ensure kids have the opportunity to play safely every day. Playworks Michigan plans to reach at least 35 schools in the 2020-21 school year.
Our mission remains steadfast, to improve the health and well-being of children by increasing opportunities for physical activity and safe, meaningful play, and with support from Delta Dental, Playworks Michigan will acquire the necessary technology and equipment to serve approximately 7,000 students in 210 classrooms in both digital and safe socially-distanced environments on a daily basis for the entirety of the school year.
Our Playworks team, along with our school partners, has been working diligently to modify and adapt many of our historically in-person trainings and programs to be delivered virtually in a COVID-19 environment. We are also committed to supporting schools by offering in-person play and recess with adherence to CDC guidelines.
In preparing to deliver programming virtually, Playworks is transforming our traditional office space into two broadcast studios that our staff members can use when supporting play at each of our partner schools. In order to build out a studio, we will purchase technical equipment like webcams, microphones, tripods, and lighting fixtures.
Delta Dental has generously agreed to match all contributions towards our “Back to School, Back to Play” campaign, up to $15,000. Playworks seeks to raise a total of $30,000 to purchase necessary equipment, prepare our staff for safe returns to schools and ensure that children get the opportunity to play, be joyful and learn valuable social and emotional skills when they need it most.
Please consider joining Delta Dental by contributing $10, $20, $100 or any amount to help us reach our $30,000 goal and ensure vibrant school communities. The campaign will run through September 25, 2020.
