In 2007 Keenooshayo Elementary School built a new playground. As chair of the playground committee I am taking the recent events at Keenooshayo quite personally. A couple of weeks ago vandalism reared its ugly head behind Keenooshayo. A fire was lit that
So much time and effort went into the building of this playground (as do all efforts like this that involve parent associations). It was a learning experience for many of the parents involved, but even more important is what our children gained from the experience. The students of Keenooshayo witnessed a community come together and spend a great deal of volunteer time planning, fundraising and organizing, culminating with building over three sunny days. I believe our children formed a sense of pride of accomplishment at the end of the process. They took away a sense of ownership that has now been shockingly shattered.
The cause of vandalism varies. In St. Albert, some would say it is just bored kids or even young adults out late with nothing to do. I don't want to label the culprits 'bad kids.' I prefer to believe there is something missing, an asset that may have focused their attention elsewhere.
The City of St. Albert, along with RCMP, schools and the community has adopted the 40 Developmental Assets approach to help youth achieve success. It is not a crime prevention program but one designed to foster the 40 positive qualities that youth need to grow up healthy and responsible.
Stretched police resources during the summer months could be another factor in this senseless vandalism. A recent police resource methodology study conducted by the RCMP concluded that in order to continue with our mandated 'no call too small' policy our detachment required six more general duty officers. Currently they are stretched too thin. They just don't have the manpower to shine a flashlight behind schools, in parks, in the river trails or establish a rapport and mutual respect with the youth.
This fall the Keenooshayo community will once again pull together to raise funds, plan and repair our playground. We are hoping the greater St. Albert community will support our kids in their efforts to re-establish a safe and caring place for our children to play and learn.
Cathy Heron, St. Albert
