FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 8, 2025
Eastside Elementary Celebrates Ribbon Cutting for New Playground Structures
CODY, WY — Excitement and pride filled the air on Friday afternoon as Eastside Elementary School officially cut the ribbon on two brand-new playground structures — the school’s first major outdoor play space improvement in two decades. The celebration marked the culmination of seven months of community effort, student involvement, and dedicated teamwork.
The project began last April during Eastside’s annual Walk-a-Thon Fundraiser, when students laced up their sneakers to raise funds for the playground upgrade. With strong participation from families and support from numerous community business partners, Eastside shattered its previous fundraising record by collecting $45,641.50. To bring the project to completion, the Shoshone Recreation District generously contributed an additional $21,000.
After weather delays and supply challenges, the project reached its final stages this fall. “It was a long endeavor, and required a lot of patience. At one point, we were told delivery would be delayed by almost a year. Thankfully, we successfully negotiated $11,000 in free upgraded structures in return for only a one month project delay instead.” Parents, staff members, and volunteers worked together over four afternoons to apply finishing touches — installing borders, spreading gravel, and ensuring the new play areas were safe and ready for students to enjoy.
“This project is a testament to what makes Cody special,” said Principal Joe Smith. “Community might be Cody's greatest strength. You can travel the country looking for a more generous, more caring, committed, and engaged community than Cody, and you might not find it. We owe a tremendous debt of gratitude to our incredible PTK, parents, volunteers, students, community partners, and the Shoshone Recreation District. We all had our part to play to make this project a reality.”
The new playground additions will serve hundreds of Eastside students daily, offering more opportunities for play and movement during the school day. In addition, the community at large is welcome to enjoy the playgrounds during non-school hours.