School to Raise Funds for New Playground

School playgrounds, with their fences and other security measures, are supposed to shelter children from peril. But at Pomelo Drive Elementary School, the danger lurks inside the fence.

The school’s run-down blacktop has been a minefield of sorts for children, who must navigate potholes that have caused nasty spills. Officials at the West Hills school have recorded hundreds of injuries over the years, and in February a girl broke her ankle. Now, the children are forbidden to play there.

Recently, the Los Angeles Unified School District provided funds to repave the playground, which officials said hasn’t been resurfaced since the school was built about 30 years ago. The $94,000 project is expected to be completed in June, officials said.

On Saturday, the school will hold a music festival to raise money for new playground equipment to replace old facilities that have been deemed unsafe.

Performers will include recording artist Freddie Ravel, the singing-storytelling duo J.P. Nightingale, blues band Gashouse Dave and comedian/impressionist Jess Harnell.

Officials expect to raise about $30,000 and hope the school district will provide matching funds. With the additional money, Principal Marcee Seegan said the school could install a new handball court, a basketball court and play equipment for kindergartners.

Refurbishing the play area has been a community effort, she said. “This is a very, very active community,” Seegan said. “I couldn’t ask for a more supportive parent group. We are a LEARN school, and we consider ourselves a family.”

Saturday’s festival will run from 3 to 7 p.m. at the school, 7633 March Ave. Advance tickets are $10, and $12 at the door. Tickets for children are $7.50.

For information, call the school at (818) 887-9700.