It Takes a Village: Pickens School Celebrates a New Playground

Students, teachers, and community members gathered together at Pickens School on Sunday, September 21st for the ribbon cutting ceremony of the school’s brand-new playground. The celebration of the new facility is thanks to the support of many partners and fundraisers over the last few years, including a 2024 grant from the Tucker Community Foundation. 

Pickens School is one of the smallest schools in West Virginia, serving just 30 students in grades K–12. In such a rural community, the school playground is more than just a place for recess; it’s a gathering space for families, children, and neighbors. When the school secured funding for new playground equipment, they were eager to move forward, but one key piece was missing. To properly install the system, 9 cubic yards of concrete were needed to secure the posts and ensure the playground’s safety. 

That’s where the Tucker Community Foundation stepped in. With a $1,500 grant, the Foundation covered the cost of the concrete, helping turn the school’s vision into a reality. 

When TCF CEO David Cooper attended the ribbon cutting ceremony, he was touched by the vibrant community pride, shown through the high attendance for the ribbon cutting. “This playground isn’t just for students—it’s for the whole Pickens community,” he said.  

The new playground is a reminder that even small investments can make a big difference—especially in rural places where resources are limited but community spirit runs strong.