A huge thank you to Polk County, Casey’s and Southeast Polk Education Foundation!  Their donations/grants along with money from the SEP PPEL fund will provide the majority of the funding for a brand new Runnells Elementary playground, including a walking track.

Runnells PTA has been working with SEP School Board Member Ric Powell and President of SEP Education Foundation Maggie Crabb to gather the funds needed. Tom Hockensmith, Polk County Supervisor 4th district, shared that their grant is made possible by Prairie Meadows (thanks!) and commended Ric on his persistence to make this happen for the students of our district. Their grant to Runnells Elementary is the largest amount ever given to a school. Wow!

Casey’s Region Director, District Supervisor and Store manager were on hand to contribute as well. They facilitate the Cash for Classrooms initiative that allows community members to make donations.

The Rams Council, the school’s student council made up of 4th and 5th graders, represented the entire school to receive the donations. Their faces say it all!

Again, thank you to everyone for helping make this dream come to fruition. Look for more information as this project progresses with the goal that it will be ready by the fall of 2022.