The kids have spoken

Earlier this month brought one of those moments that reminds us exactly why we’re doing this.

Every Beattie Elementary student had the chance to weigh in on a big decision for our new playground: the colors. Large-format images of the playground design were displayed in three different color schemes, and class by class, students walked by, studied the options, and cast their votes.

And the result?

A landslide.

Beattie blue and yellow won by a mile.

It wasn’t close — and honestly, it was pretty heartwarming to see. Kids pointed, talked with friends, and proudly voted for the colors that represent their school. Beattie pride runs deep here, and it showed in the easiest, most joyful way — kids choosing that Bobcat pride.

Letting students help choose the look of their future playground wasn’t just a fun activity. It was intentional. This playground is being built for them, and giving them a real voice in the process matters. When kids see themselves reflected in a space, they take ownership of it. They care for it. They feel proud of it.

Soon, those familiar blue and yellow colors will be part of a safe, modern playground where kids climb, imagine, test their limits, and make memories for years to come.

Thank you to everyone who is helping make this possible. The students are ready — and they’ve made it very clear what they want.

Beattie blue and yellow it is.

$84K to Go

The Beattie community has continued to push hard to raise the final dollars needed to replace our 40-year-old playground. Thanks to the generosity of families, neighbors, and community partners, we are closing in on our goal and working to ensure the playground equipment already ordered can be fully installed in summer 2026.

These remaining funds are critical. They cover the final site preparation and installation costs that make the playground usable and safe for students on day one. Every contribution — large or small — moves us closer to opening a space that reflects Beattie pride, creativity, and care for every child who plays there.

We’re almost there — and the momentum is real.

A student casts his vote for the new playground colors. Photo courtesy Lincoln Public Schools.