Students at Sacred Heart Academy in Grand Rapids will soon enjoy a new playground! The academy has collaborated with nearby John Ball Zoo to build it. It will be located at John Ball Park, along Valley Ave. SW across from the academy.
Rev. Robert Sirico, pastor of Sacred Heart Academy and Parish, joined zoo and local government officials for a groundbreaking on Aug. 14. Headmaster Sean Maltbie and a group of Sacred Heart Academy students joined, too.
The playground is designed to be accessible for children and youth of all ages and abilities. It will feature natural materials, including wood, rock and native vegetation, to inspire curiosity and reverence for the natural world. Above all, it’s designed to be a neighborhood amenity that brings children together. Plans for the playground can be seen here.
The new playground is scheduled to be ready in September.
Check out news coverage of the groundbreaking from Mlive, 13 On Your Side, FOX 17, and WOOD TV 8.
Sacred Heart Academy offers a classical education from preschool through 12th grade, and also offers classical enrichment courses to supplement homeschooling coursework. Learn more here.