VENTURA, Calif. Cheers and laughter echoed across Elmhurst Elementary School as students, staff and community members gathered for the ribbon-cutting of three new playgrounds — the first of 16 planned across Ventura Unified School District under the voter approved Measure E bond initiative.
The playgrounds, designed using an evidence-based, inclusive approach, aim to support the development of all children — including those with disabilities — across physical, cognitive, social-emotional and sensory domains. The brightly colored, nature-themed play areas feature a range of equipment from ziplines and climbing structures to sensory elements, offering students opportunities to explore, connect and grow together.
“These playgrounds are more than just places to play — they’re places where students of all abilities can come together, feel safe, and build friendships,” said Elmhurst Principal Bret Klopfenstein during the ceremony. “We are incredibly grateful to our community for passing Measure E and making projects like this possible.”
The morning celebration included remarks from district leaders, a ribbon-cutting, and a group photo before students eagerly rushed to test out the new play equipment. The campus now boasts three separate structures — one for transitional kindergarten and kindergarten students, and two others for the upper grades.
Superintendent Dr. Antonio…
