PETERSBURG, Va.— Petersburg City Public Schools announced the opening of a new playground at Pleasants Lane Elementary School in Petersburg, Virginia today. The “Ribbons of Love” celebration led by Superintendent Dr. Maria Pitre-Martin offered all of the 572 students of Pleasants Lane Elementary the opportunity to record their name and an inspirational message on a celebratory ribbon to tie to the fence surrounding the playground.
Funding for the new recreational facilities was donated by corporate support from Phlow Corp., AMPAC Fine Chemicals, Civica Rx, and Virginia Commonwealth University’s Medicines for All Institute. The funding partners of the Pleasants Lane playground are creating an advanced pharmaceutical manufacturing campus in Petersburg to produce affordable, high-quality, essential medicines for all Americans.
“We are proud to open the new Pleasants Lane Elementary School playground for generations to come to create memories they will cherish forever,” said Dr. Maria Pitre-Martin, superintendent of Petersburg Public Schools. “It is well documented that playgrounds serve as a safe space for children to be themselves while developing cognitive, physical, social, and emotional skills. But this playground comes with an added benefit, as it represents the spirit of collaboration, strong partnerships, and what is possible when we all work together.”
“The donation by Phlow, AMPAC, Civica Rx, and VCU’s Medicines for All Institute sends an important message to the Pleasants Lane student scholars that they are important, that they matter, and that they are the future of the great city of Petersburg! On behalf of the students, staff, and families we thank you for partnering with us and helping us grow future leaders” said Trina Mitchener, principal of Pleasants Lane Elementary School.
“We are all proud to be part of the thriving City of Petersburg and to have an opportunity to positively impact the lives of the students and families at Pleasants Lane Elementary,” said Kipton Currier, senior director of engagement at Phlow and spokesperson for the manufacturing collaborative. “It’s our hope that the collaboration that led to the creation of the new Pleasants Lane playground will awaken creative instincts and serve as a launching pad for great things to come.”
Petersburg’s Mayor Sam Parham said, “Petersburg is attracting first class businesses like Phlow, VCU’s Medicines for All, Civica and AMPAC. These businesses are instrumental to the City’s economic vitality and quality of life. We commend their commitment to education and providing tools for the advancement of Petersburg’s children and residents.”
Founded in 1948, Pleasants Lane Elementary School serves 572 students from kindergarten to fifth grade in Petersburg. The new playground, located at 100 Pleasants Lane, will offer students and community members a safe, age-specific, and engaging place to play, learn, and grow. Learn more about Petersburg City Public Schools at petersburg.k12.va.us.