TENNERTON — Thanks to a generous partnership between two local businesses, Tennerton Elementary School will soon have new safety gates enclosing its playground at no cost to the school or Upshur County Schools.
The project began after Tennerton Elementary identified a need to better secure its playground area, where cars had been driving through during the school day. The gates will help create a safer environment for students during recess and outdoor activities.
The Tennerton Parent Teacher Organization began fundraising for the project and shared a quote previously obtained by the Upshur County Board of Education with Travis Shaw of High Point Construction to seek a second opinion. What followed was an unexpected show of community support.
Shaw, along with Daniel Woody of Neel’s Fence Company, agreed to take on the entire project free of charge, covering both materials and labor.
Installation of the new safety gates is expected to be completed within the next two weeks.
“The safety and well-being of our children is always our highest priority, and your willingness to work together to support our school shows a genuine commitment to our students and our community,” the Tennerton PTO said. “While our students may not know your names, they will feel the impact of your kindness and support every day through the added safety and peace of mind your contribution provides. Thank you will never be enough.”
School officials and parents say the project highlights the importance of community partnerships and the lasting impact local businesses can have on student safety and well-being.
