Bringing the Joy of Play to All

Timber Lake School District was awarded a $20,000 South Dakota Fund grant from South Dakota Community Foundation to assist with the renovation of its playground. The renovation is set to be complete for the 2026-2027 school year. 

Timber Lake School District serves children from several rural communities in north-central South Dakota. 

“In a small rural community like Timber Lake, our school playground is much more than a place to play—it is where friendships begin, families gather, and our community comes together,” said Sarah Schweitzer, Timber Lake School District Special Education Director. “SDCF’s generosity will allow us to create an inclusive, ADA-accessible playground where every child can participate, explore and experience the joy of play. When every child has a place to play, every child has a place to belong.”

The new installations at the playground will include rubberized safety surfaces, widened sidewalks, accessible play structures and sensory-friendly play elements. These additions will ensure that children of all abilities can safely participate in play—fostering inclusion, social development and community connection.

"Play is how children learn, connect and grow, and every child deserves access to that experience," said Ginger Niemann, SDCF Senior Program Officer. "We're honored to help Timber Lake create a playground where all students can participate fully."