Students at Franklin Elementary School are free to play outside even when it is raining, because every student at the school now has a “Muddy Buddy” rain suit.
About a month ago, when the snow melted and the school yard became muddy and it started to rain, the students were brought together for an assembly, and they brought the units out on a big rack.
The suits were bought in part with a grant from the TD Friends of the Environment Foundation, which donated $6,000 to the school.
“This equipment promotes equity, resilience, and a love of nature, while allowing children to explore ecosystems, the water cycle, and biodiversity – no matter the weather,” wrote the foundation in a social media post.
Principal Melanie Robidoux explained that “Nature has always been a guiding thread in our learning. Opportunities for play and exploration are endless, especially when it comes to science and hands-on learning. We are well equipped to meet nature’s demands, rain gear at the ready.”
The students appreciate their Muddy Buddies. “When the water goes on them, you can just shake it off. They are comfy, and they let you jump in mud and water, and you can’t get wet,” said Grade 4 student Tyler Hebert.
Originally the school was equipped for only the pre-kindergarten classes, but now there are rain suits for the entire school. “There is a size for everybody, even the adults,” said Grade 3 student Rosie Bonneville.
“It is very generous of them to give money to the school so we could get gear,” added Wesley Buchanan, who is in Grade 5. “It feels good wearing them.”
*This article was written with the help of students at Franklin Elementary School as part of a partnership between the New Frontiers School Board and The Gleaner, with funding from the federal government.