Industry
Education
Ages
5-12
Key Products
Tower, Rope, Shade
Mitchell County 3-8 School Creates “Wow-Factor” Playgrounds for All Ages and Abilities
When Mitchell County Schools in Bakersville, North Carolina, set out to build a new combined elementary and middle school campus, they knew they needed more than just classrooms. They needed play environments that would not only serve students of all ages and abilities but also leave a lasting impression on anyone passing by.
“The superintendent told me he wanted the playgrounds to be a wow-factor because they would be visible from the main road,” said Luke Rutherford of MAPA Recreation, the partner who led the playground design and installation. Thanks to grant funding, the playgrounds were fully installed and ready for students before the first bell of the new school year.
Two Distinct Playgrounds for One Unified Campus
The campus now features two separate playgrounds designed to meet the needs of a wide age range while encouraging active, inclusive, and creative play.
Playground One: Adventure and Challenge for Older Students
Designed with older students in mind, this playground delivers high-energy fun and multi-sensory experiences. Highlights include:
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A tower playground that draws the eye and challenges climbers
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A Matrix Climber and Ascend Thrill Swirl Tower, a rope-based tower climbing structure
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A rope-based balance beam for agility play
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An array of freestanding musical instruments for creative exploration
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A 3-bay swing for group swinging fun
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Three shaded benches offering comfort for supervising teachers and relaxing students
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Synthetic turf surfacing for clean and safe play
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A total of six integrated shades providing much-needed sun protection
Playground Two: Accessible and Inclusive Play for All
This second playground is a model of inclusive design, ensuring children of all abilities can play together. Features include:
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An inclusive tower playground with a wide ramp for wheelchair access
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A 2-bay swing featuring both traditional seats and adaptive swing seats
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Multiple ground-level play panels
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Outdoor musical instruments that allow children to create their own rhythm
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Shaded benches for comfort and rest
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Poured-in-place rubber surfacing for full ADA accessibility and safety
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A total of eight large integrated shades offering protection from the sun
A First for Mitchell County
“This project is unique because this is the first playground of this size anywhere in this county,” Rutherford said. “It also withstood Hurricane Helene, which had wind gusts up to 100mph.”
Durability and safety were top priorities in the design and installation of both play spaces, ensuring these playgrounds will serve the school and the wider community for years to come.
Community Impact
The playgrounds have not only met the superintendent’s vision—they’ve exceeded expectations. With bold aesthetics, inclusive design, and challenging features, Mitchell County 3-8 School now offers two state-of-the-art play environments that provide a daily “wow” for students and passersby alike.
