• Everybody's Playground logo and header inmage

A New Playground Experience for All

  • Nestled in the heart of Atlanta, Virginia-Highland Elementary—the newest school in Atlanta Public Schools—is committed to fostering an inclusive and dynamic learning environment where students are encouraged to empathize, problem-solve, explore, and innovate together. Everybody’s Playground will bring this vision to life, transforming outdoor play into an opportunity for every child to learn, grow, and connect.

    As Virginia-Highland Elementary celebrates the centennial of its storied building—a pillar of education in Atlanta since 1924—the school honors its rich history while embracing the future. Everybody’s Playground will be a lasting part of this legacy, creating a welcoming space where all children can experience the joy of play, year after year.

Progress to Date

    • Relocation of Existing Playground Structure (May 2024): The existing play structure was relocated to the upper lot, which opened up the lower lot to be one large sports field. A rubber surface was poured underneath the play structure, making it safer and more accessible for all children. APS covered the cost of the relocation and the rubber surface.

     

    • Shade Structure & Swings (Sept 2024): The shade structure will serve as a place for students to relax during recess, as well as an outdoor classroom. There will be 3 picnic benches underneath. The swings were the #1 most requested item by students and we are excited to make that dream a reality. Both of these items were funded by the VHE PTO, the Resurgens Foundation, and the VHE Fun Run held in September 2023.

     

Next Steps

    • Main Playground Surfacing & Main Structure: $575,000
      • Our goal is to install the playground surfacing & main structure in December 2025
      • The total cost for the phase is $575,000
        • Rubber surfacing, installation, & freight: $250,000
        • Main equipment: $325,000
      • As of 1/30/25, we have $345,000 raised towards this goal
      • See the fundraising page for more details on progress to date