BURRILLVILLE – New basketball hoops have been installed at the Steere Farm Elementary School playground thanks to a collaborative effort and investments made by the Steere Farm Elementary Parent-Teacher Association, Burrillville Youth Basketball Association and P&R Construction Co.
P & R Construction installed the basketball equipment, replacing old set-ups that were in disrepair on the school’s playground with items purchased from Douglas Sports Equipment. P & R also provided the needed groundwork, excavating and removing the old set-ups, and pouring concrete to set the new equipment for labor in-kind.
According to staff at the Steere Farm Road school, the project came with a morale boost for the kids who play on the courts.
“It’s amazing to see the students’ excitement over the new basketball hoops after years of using the old ones on the playground,” said Holly Detonnancourt, a fifth grade teacher. “The upgraded equipment looks great, but also has made a noticeable difference in the quality of play.”
Detonnancourt said the kids are now more engaged in the sport, and it’s bringing out their competitive spirit and teamwork.
“It’s a simple upgrade, but it has truly made a positive impact on their physical activity and enjoyment during recess,” she said. “The way the community came together to make this happen is just incredible.”
The Burrillville Youth Basketball Association was among the key financial sponsors. The organization, a volunteer, non-profit serving Burrillville children ages 4 through 15, is dedicated to providing a safe environment in which Burrillville youth can learn and enjoy the game of basketball.
“They were excited about the project to help encourage kids in the community to play the game,” explained Maria Quiray Lawrence, director of strategic initiatives for the Burrillville School Department.
“The sport of basketball helps build physical endurance, fosters concentration, and encourages teamwork and interpersonal skills through communication,” said BYBA President Ian Dalpe. “I’m proud to be part of a community that promotes these benefits for all skill levels for kids of all abilities. Most importantly, we are so happy to support our schools and the children who attend them.”
It was the Steere Farm PTA that spearheaded the project with the goal of creating school improvements that would directly benefit the students. Conversations began in the 2023-24 academic year and the membership voted in the spring to designate funds to the project.
“The Steere Farm Elementary PTA exists ‘to support our students’ physical, mental, and academic well-being,’” said SFE PTA Vice President & BYBA Board Member Shannon Luttge. “There are great physical and mental benefits when playing basketball, and we know that both current and future students at Steere Farm will use the hoops at recess time for many years to come.”
The collaborators pointed to the success of the project as what can happen when groups in the community come together.
“On behalf of Steere Farm Elementary, we are grateful to everyone who contributed to making this project a reality,” said SFE Principal Courtney Francis. “The new basketball hoops stand as a shining example of our community’s dedication to fostering health and wellness for our students.”
The school playgrounds are open to the public after school and on weekends.
