Thanks to the dedication and teamwork of the Palmer Lake Elementary School community, a vibrant new U.S. map has been painted on the school’s playground, bringing excitement and color to recess and activities.
The project began more than a year ago when a group of sixth graders expressed interest in repainting the old playground map. While the timing didn’t work out initially, the idea resurfaced this year. After researching options, the PLES Parent-Teacher Organization purchased a paper stencil, and Sherwin-Williams generously donated the paint to support the project.
Initially, the map was set to be painted in its original location, but when Principal Kim Briding shared plans for a new playground area, the project shifted to the basketball court. The journey to completion wasn’t without challenges. During one of the hottest and breeziest days of the summer, the paper stencil proved no match for the Colorado wind. Undeterred, the PTO regrouped and purchased a sturdier plastic stencil from a Rotary Club in Kansas, ensuring the project’s success.
PLES students are thrilled with the new addition. Hadlee Wells-Longshore, a third grader, said, “I like it. It’s pretty fun.” Brandt Rohrer, also in third grade, called it “epic,” while Lindsay Stahlecker, another third grader, added, “It makes it more interesting.”
The perseverance and hard work of PTO members Nadine Bertrand and her family, Laura Quinlan, Valerie Cocchiere, Tony Davison, and their families brought the project to life. The result is a beautiful, vibrant U.S. map that has quickly become a playground favorite.
Students have already come up with creative ways to use the map during recess and activities. Brandt said he enjoys identifying states where people travel in the United States, while Theo Nickolson, another third grader, likes to quiz friends on the states they’re standing on. Greyson Dixon, a fourth grader, said, “We can respectfully admire it and shoot baskets from different states.” Fiona Quinlan, a second grader, enjoys jumping from state to state, and Luca Cocchiere, a fourth grader, said, “I play catch on the map with my friends, where each person stands in a different state and passes the ball.”
When asked about their favorite state or place on the map, students shared personal connections. Hadlee chose California, saying, “I was born there. It’s really fun.” Jake Ramler, a third grader, picked Texas because his mom was born there, and he likes it. Greyson selected Georgia, explaining, “My grandparents and dad were born there.” Luca mentioned Oklahoma, saying, “I love tornados, and they have lots of them.”
The colorful addition has brought a sense of excitement and pride to the playground. Hadlee said, "I like it," while Theo added, "I think it’s nice." Greyson shared, "It makes it better," and Luca commented, "The colors are very vibrant, and it makes me happy."