Long Lawn Day, Sappington Green Space
September 2, 2014
Long Students Enjoy New Field Space
Long Elementary students experienced the school’s new play field for the first time Friday, Aug. 29 during Long Lawn Day. Students participated in two water relays on the new field, which is located in the southeast corner of campus.
“The field looks fantastic,” said Long principal Dr. Jana Parker. “We are excited to have a new space for our students to enjoy.”
Lindbergh purchased the land from Richard and Dorothy Abeln in 2012 to address Long’s rapid student enrollment growth. Long has added more than 50 new students since 2012, and enrollment is projected to continue increasing over the next several years.
The 4.684 acres were ideal for creating a parking lot, field space, and separate exits for parents and buses. Less than two years later, the new parking lot is filled with vehicles and the separate exits have alleviated traffic safety concerns at the school. The final piece, field space, was unveiled to students Friday.
“This land has transformed our campus,” added Parker. “It will make a world of difference for future Long families and students.”
Crews Begin Work on New Sappington Field
Sappington Elementary is the largest elementary school in the district, serving more than 660 student in grades K-5 each day. However, the school has one of the smallest outdoor play areas for recess and physical education.
Last week, construction crews began removing four homes behind Sappington to create much needed green space for students. Lindbergh worked with neighbors on Peachtree Road and Eddie and Park to purchase the homes, and all residents agreed to sell their properties to the district.
When complete, the green space will feature enough room for soccer and baseball fields, as well as updated landscaping and fencing. The project will also incorporate Sappington’s playground and pavilion expansion that was completed in 2006.