While large renovation and construction are a drawn out, complex and expensive endeavor, playground development is a far more exciting way to bring staff, students and families together to return unused space to students, and the school community. Where any given school is likely surrounded by a sea of grass and asphalt, can't we reimagine that space as one where any and all students could easily spend a few active hours?
Andrew O’Leary
Assistant Superintendent of Finance and Operations
New Bedford Public Schools
Andrew has served New Bedford Public Schools as for 17 years. He has been the Assistant Superintendent of Finance & Operations since 2018. Prior to his current role he was Business Manager, Director of Federal & State Funded Programs and a teacher. Additionally he taught at Bristol Community College for 11 years.
John P. LaRue
Certified Playground Safety Inspector
Since 1991, John has focused on the design of safe & accessible playgrounds. He was part of the Team contracted by the US Access Board in 2000 to develop and write the Design Guide to ADA and Play Areas. John is a recognized speaker and has presented well over 500 seminars throughout North America, addressing Character in Youth, Playground Regulations, Performance Based Surfacing Specifications and the American with Disabilities Act. He is a Registered CEU Provider with the American Society of Landscape Architects; a Certified Playground Safety a TRIAX and Rotational Penetrometer Inspector and a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist.