Agenda Item
vi. Laurel Ridge Elementary School Playground Enhancements (Not to Exceed $43,016)
Summary: Presented by: Dr. Cherisse Campbell, Chief of Community Engagement & Innovative Partnerships, Division of Community Engagement & Innovative Partnerships
Request: It is requested that the DeKalb County Board of Education accept and approve the installation of a sports court by PlayWORX Playsets, LLC, funded by the Laurel Ridge ES PTA, for $43,016.
Why: Currently, the school's outdoor play space is limited in structure and versatility, which impacts the quality and safety of student activities during recess, physical education, and school events. The addition of a sports court will provide a defined, durable surface that supports a wider range of organized and inclusive activities for all students. This improvement will enhance student engagement, promote physical wellness, and create a more welcoming and functional environment for both daily use and community events, reflecting positively on the school and district.
Details: The Laurel Ridge Elementary School PTA proposes to fund the development of a sports court to enhance outdoor play, physical activity, and student engagement. This improvement will provide a safe, structured, and versatile space for students to participate in activities such as basketball, fitness stations, and organized games during recess, physical education, and school events. The addition of a sports court will support students' physical well-being, encourage teamwork and positive social interactions, and create opportunities for inclusive play for all learners. It will also serve as a valuable space for schoolwide and community events, fostering stronger connections and school pride among students, families, and staff.
The proposed package includes: - Basketball systems, including two backboards and rims - One 4 x 6 futsal goal - Versacourt multi-sport tile system (85 x 65 surface) - Complete materials to support a durable, multi-use athletic space for student activities and events.
Financial impact: The total cost of the materials is $53,016. This expense will be partially funded by the Laurel Ridge Elementary School PTA, with $10,000 coming from the ASEDP Surplus Account, at no cost to the district or the school's operating budget. ASEDP Surplus Account: 589.1000.561099.74921.2500.9990.4060.090.0000
Contact: Ms. Terri D. Brown, Area 2 Elementary Superintendent, Division of Schools & Leadership, terri_d_brown@dekalbschoolsga.org, 678-898-2101
Ms. Corey Hartman, Principal, Laurel Ridge Elementary School, Division of Schools & Leadership, corey_e_hartman@dekalbschoolsga.org, 678-874-6902
Effective: Upon Board Approval
Status: Approved by the Office of Legal Affairs
Date: May 18, 2026
RE: Facility Project Request Notification: Approved-Versa Multisport Court
Facility Name and Address: Laurel Ridge Elementary School
1215 Balsam Drive
Decatur, GA 30033
Dear Principal Hartman,
Providing clean, safe, and efficient school facilities for all students is our DCSD Strategic Plan Goal. In that effort,
thank you for submitting a Facility Project Request (FPR).
Your submittal was reviewed by the Facility Project Request Committee (FPRC) which may have included your
Area Superintendent, Facility Manager, Grounds Manager, and the Executive Director of Capital Improvements
and Facilities. The FPRC is responsible for making a recommendation to the Chief of Operations who makes the
final decision.
Thank you for your patience with the process as each request was vetted to ensure that all appropriate safety
conditions were considered along with maintenance and budget implications.
Please note the following requests have been approved:
o Installation of a Multi-sport Versa Court (funding source: private donation pending BOE approval)
Please note the following requests have been denied:
o NA
Please note the following requests require “More Information Needed” (“MIN”).
o NA
Lemuel Hawkins, Grounds & Stadium Manager III, will be your direct point of contact for support.
Respectfully,
Mr. Erick Hofstetter, Chief Operating Officer
cc: Ms. Terri Brown, Area Superintendent
Sam A. Moss Service Center
1780 Montreal Road | Tucker, Georgia 30084
678.676.1320 | www.dekalbschoolsga.org