Why Playgrounds?

The proceeds from Bay Ball 2026 will be prioritized to support the ongoing fundraising efforts for new playgrounds at Richards and Cumberland Elementary Schools.

More than just places to play, our playgrounds are vital spaces for social development, outdoor learning and community connection. Investing in playgrounds means investing in the safety and the well-being of our children and the shared spaces that bring our community together.

Additionally, support will be dedicated to the Whitefish Bay Middle School PTO and Whitefish Bay High School PA. These are volunteer organizations comprised of parents, teachers and administrators dedicated to creating the best learning and growing atmosphere for the communities within the schools. They work with teachers and school administration to determine where funds are needed and provide a necessary bridge to funding gaps.

Richards Proposal
Cumberland Proposal

Cumberland

The Cumberland Elementary playground is a single, large space that serves all students and spans a significant area. Now more than 20 years old, much of the equipment has reached the end of its lifespan. Replacement parts are no longer available and several sections have already been dismantled in recent years due to deterioration and safety concerns.

The playground’s pea gravel surface presents ongoing safety and accessibility challenges. Pea gravel can limit inclusive play and can pose a choking hazard for younger children. When compacted or displaced beneath equipment, it hardens into an unsafe surface that reduces impact protection. Beyond safety concerns, the gravel frequently migrates beyond the play areas, like the classrooms and families’ homes and dryers!

Bay Ball 2026's goal is to support Cumberland Elementary in executing Phase 1.

Over the last several years, Cumberland’s PTO has raised funds through its annual Fun Run and is now just $32,000 away from reaching it’s Phase 1 goal, with hopes of completing construction by the 2026–2027 school year.

We are proud to support Cumberland’s ongoing fundraising efforts to modernize the playground and ensure it is safe, accessible and equitable for all students.

Phase 1 Total Costs: $122,365

  • Removal of all peagravel, new woodchips, new poured-in-place surface

  • Removal of existing deteriorating spring see-saw, clubhouse and climbing wall

  • Addition of “We-Saw” and “We-go-round”

Phase 1

Phase 2

Phase 3

Total Costs: $262,934

  • Extended playground space, with new poured-in-place surface

  • Additional play structures, including accessible such as the “we-go-round” and “we-saw”

Richards Proposal

Richards

The increased enrollment over the past several years at Richards Elementary has placed added demand on its existing playground spaces. While the school currently offers multiple play areas for different age groups, overlapping recess schedules have led to overcrowding and limited opportunities for inclusive, accessible play.

To meet the needs of its growing school community, Richards is proposing the addition of a new playground in the back lot. This new space will include thoughtfully designed and accessible play structures to support a wide range of social, emotional, physical and cognitive development. It will expand opportunities for inclusive play, ensuring that all students can participate, connect and thrive.

Bay Ball 2026's goal is to fund 3 or more play structures

Richards Elementary has just begun fundraising for this important addition, and Bay Ball 2026 is proud to support their efforts by helping give the project a meaningful jump start.

Whitefish Bay Middle School Parent Teacher Organization & Whitefish Bay High School Parent Association

Bay Ball 2026 is also dedicating support to both the Middle School PTO and High School PA

These are volunteer organizations comprised of parents, teachers, and administrators dedicated to creating the best possible learning and growth environment for their school communities. They work closely with teachers and school leadership to identify funding needs and help bridge critical gaps where resources fall short.

Beyond financial support, these organizations also help cultivate school spirit and connection by organizing memorable student experiences such as social nights, spirit weeks, and other community-building events. These programs enrich the student experience, foster belonging and create the moments that students carry with them long after graduation.