Choctaw Elementary School Hosts Ribbon Cutting

Contact: Commissioner Jim Roth
Phone: (405) 713-1501

Choctaw - Nicoma Park (September 25, 2006) – Friday, District One Commissioner Jim Roth attended a ribbon cutting ceremony at Choctaw Elementary School to celebrate the completion of the second phase of the school’s Dreamcatcher Playground. The first phase of the project, completed in October 2004, included the construction of a large scale - handicapped accessible- play structure, the first of its kind in Choctaw, as well as a climbing net, and park.

In addition to Roth and District 1 employees involved in project construction, the event was attended by, Choctaw-Nicoma Park Superintendent, Dr. Jim McCharen, members of the local Board of Education, Principal Cheryl Lidia, the Staff, Students, and P.T.O. members of Choctaw Elementary, Project Coordinator Barbara Schaefer, as well as other members of the Dreamcatcher Playground Foundation.

The project, a partnership between Oklahoma County and the Choctaw Nicoma Park School system was made possible by a state law that allows counties to use their labor and equipment on school owned property. Roth, who was instrumental in the passage of the law, explained that prior to the passage of Senate Bill 237 during the 2003 legislative session, partnerships such as this would not have been possible. “I am extremely pleased the legislature recognized the valuable role county government could play in assisting local schools with their infrastructure needs.”

The current phase, of the planned four phase project, included the construction of new basketball court and two swing areas. The swing area features a variety of swing sets, including full body support swings, tire swings, and toddler buckets. Additional work included the construction of new sidewalks, resurfacing of a picnic area, as well as drainage improvements. When asked about his District’s role in the project, Roth said, “We are committed to improving our schools. Our crews love this type of work …we get a real satisfaction from helping the kids and the community.”

Funding for the school’s portion of the project, used to cover material costs, was raised by the Dreamcatcher Playground Foundation, students, and the Choctaw Elementary P.T.O. In addition to the fundraisers, several local businesses provided assistance as well.

Speaking on behalf of the Dreamcatcher Playground Foundation, Project Coordinator Barbara Schaefer said the goal of the foundation is to make children’s dreams come true by replacing barriers with smiles, laughter, and play. “We want to thank Commissioner Roth and District 1 for partnering with us to build this wonderful playground and helping to make our dreams a reality.”