Public Use of New Hampton Elementary School Playground to be Restricted

Daytime, public use of the New Hampton Elementary School playground is being restricted.

Since the start of the school year, Little Sprouts Childcare has operated a “wraparound daycare” for three- and four-year-old preschoolers in the elementary building. They also utilize the school playground each morning and afternoon Monday through Friday.

Little Sprouts Director Amy Ameling addressed the New Hampton School Board Monday (03.18) night about safety concerns that have risen when older kids who are not in school also use the playground.

Ameling added that parents on the playground during school time also present a safety violation.

The School Board approved closing the playground to public use from 8 am to 5 pm Monday through Friday for the rest of the school year. The Board will revisit the issue closer to summer for possible adjustments to the restrictions after the school year ends.

School Superintendent Jay Jurrens says it’s a move that protects the safety of both elementary students and the daycare kids.

Jurrens says signs to reflect the new restrictions will be posted around the playground.