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New Playground,

New Opportunities

he laughter and joy of children singing filled the air
on March 18 as Pathways Early Education Center of
T Immokalee hosted a vibrant ribbon-cutting ceremony
to celebrate its new playground.
Bringing together community members, families and
supporters, the event marked a sign of more progress to come and
a profound investment in the earliest years of children’s lives. That
investment pays dividends as shown by the latest statewide test
scores showing Pathways above the norm in several measures. with site plans, permits and county regulations.
More than just a place to play, Pathways leadership says the “This playground is more than a space for recess. It’s a world of
playground, with more open space, new surfacing and updated opportunity for our children. Together, we’ve given our children
equipment for all ages from four months to five years, is designed the gift of play, and with it, the tools to grow, learn, and thrive,” said
to spark wonder, foster creativity and support the power of play- Brandon Dowdy, Pathways CEO, invoking the words of Albert
based learning. Einstein, “Play is the highest form of research.”
That’s seriously important at Pathways, which believes This playground project was backed by last year’s Brighter
playgrounds provide opportunities for children to develop physical Future Campaign, which will also fund the center’s next milestone:
skills such as balance and coordination, while also fostering social the addition of two modular “education villas” with four new
skills such as teamwork, communication and problem-solving. classrooms for 40 new students this coming fall.
The celebration featured ice cream from Royal Scoop, floating More progress on the academic side is in the works as Pathways
bubbles, balloons and a special song written and performed by the makes plans and raises money for expansion on recently acquired
children. property across Colorado Avenue. The goal is erasing today’s wait
Pathways board member Cindy Rusu, and husband George, list of 250 youngsters – double the current enrollment.
were recognized for their vision and generous matching gift of Guests left the March 18 ribbon-cutting humming the song
$100,000, which they offered after asking teachers about their written and sung by Pathways students.
highest priority. Howard Murrell, another new board member, and It says, in part:
his company, Quality Enterprises, provided essential leadership Thank you for our water fountain!
and covered significant site development and contracting costs. Thank you for our slide!
The United Way of Collier County and The Keys funded Thank you for our playground.
shade structures to help keep children cool and safe. Architect Jim We love to play
Henley, civil engineer Dave Sneed, County Commissioner Dan We love Pathways
Kowal and many others were also applauded for their expertise And thank you for helping us grow.
Hooray!
Life in Naples | May-June-July 2026 59