Donation Promotes Inclusivity on Playgrounds for Non-Verbal Students
WAYNE COUNTY N.C. — Two local community organizations have joined forces to ensure that all elementary school students in Wayne County Public Schools (WCPS) can better communicate during recess, regardless of their verbal abilities.
The Brogden Grange and Grantham Grange recently visited five elementary schools to donate “Point and Play” communication signs—colorful playground signage designed specifically to help non-verbal students and those with speech or communication challenges express themselves during outdoor play.
How the Signs Work
The innovative signage features simple pictures and symbols that allow children to point and communicate with teachers and friends about their playground activities. Students can indicate what they want to do—such as play, jump, slide, or run—without needing to speak.
Filling the Gap
After discovering that most WCPS elementary schools had already received similar signage through grants or donations, the two Granges partnered to ensure no school was left behind. Together, they provided the communication signs to the remaining five elementary schools in the district:
- Grantham Elementary
- Carver Heights Elementary
- Northeast Elementary
- Tommy’s Road Elementary
- Spring Creek Elementary
District Response
Ken Derksen, Executive Director for Community Engagement and Student & Family Support for WCPS, praised the initiative for its impact on accessibility and inclusion.
“This was a very special donation that gives a voice to children who may not be able to communicate in the same way as their classmates,” Derksen said. “We sincerely appreciate the partnership and generosity of the Grantham Grange and Brogden Grange in helping make our elementary playgrounds more inclusive and accessible.”
The donation ensures that all WCPS elementary schools now have the tools to support effective communication for every student during recess and outdoor activities.
Check out the “Point and Play” photo gallery:
