The Portage la Prairie School Division is hard at work improving the quality of play for its students.

The Division is working on bringing up to date play equipment to schools.

Superintendent Todd Cuddington says this is two years in the making.

"Our board met with several parent councils, and they had expressed some hope the Division could focus some of their budgets on upgrades to play structures in the Division. They took that as a priority item, and we budgeted it in over the last few years."

The Division installed an accessible path and play structure at Crescentview School last year while a brand new play structure was also erected at Yellowquill School.

Cuddington says Fort la Reine School is getting a new play structure with some help from the Community Foundation of Portage and District.

"That went a long way towards helping us fundraise. It's being installed now, and it's a wonderful play structure. We hope to have it open by the end of this week," says Cuddington. "Next, we'll move over to North Memorial School, and a similarly designed play structure will be added. We had to remove one play structure, because of the construction of the new Wee-World Daycare."

North Memorial will also receive a brand new basketball court.

Oakville School has wrapped up its new accessible entrance and grooming room projects.

Cuddington says it's important to invest in kids' well-being.

"It's a place for kids to come together both during school time and after school. Having healthy play spaces where they can run around, socialize, and have fun is important for the community. I think our teachers, administrators, and our trustee's value creating these opportunities for kids to do things."