Hagersville Elementary School
Explore your future secondary school
Article content originally published in The Haldimand Press on September 17, 2026 by Tamara Botting.
HAGERSVILLE—On September 14, 2026 the Hagersville Firefighters Association was joined by some of the students from Hagersville Elementary School who are hoping for new playground equipment after the old equipment had to be removed just over a year ago. The association donated $5,000 to the school's cause. — Haldimand Press photo by Tamara Botting.
HAGERSVILLE—Just over a year ago, the playground equipment at Hagersville Elementary School (HES) was deemed unsafe and removed.
How’s recess been since then?
“It’s boring,” said student Colton Forrest.
Fellow student Parker Watson said that while she enjoys walking around and talking with her friends, a playground would make the breaks more fun.
As previously reported, the members of the HES Parent Council and other members of the community are hard at work to raise the necessary funds for replacement equipment. So far, just over $18,200 has been raised – but they need between $70,000 and $80,000, said Sophie Otterman, Fundraising Chair.
When asked if the organization knew how much they would need to raise when they started last spring, Otterman said, “No, not at all.”
But while it is a lot of money, the community has been outstanding.
There’s been a barbecue hosted by Heaslip Ford and a car wash held at Tim’s Tirecraft. More recently, Hagersville Rocks Community Support Organization, partnering with Haldimand Bouncy Castle and sponsored by the Hagersville Firefighters Association, held a movie night under the stars. The Hagersville Firefighters Association also gave an additional $5,000 donation for the project.
Carl Forrest, Association President, noted, “We’re always looking for something to give to in the community…. With enough of us here with kids that go to the school, we thought it’d be a great thing to contribute to.”
It’s not just community groups that are pitching in; individuals have also been contributing.
Katrina Forrest said, “I did a challenge to grandparents. I did $100, and I asked them to match or do better.” She had some people who took up the challenge, and she’s planning to issue it again after Christmas.
Her grandsons, Colton and Jamieson, sold items during the townwide yard sale and donated their proceeds to the fundraiser as well – around $600.
If anyone wishes to contribute to the project, they’re invited to contact the school to arrange to make a donation. The community can also watch for updates on events and fundraisers.
Right now, Otterman is hoping to host a vendors’ market on November 14 and is looking for exhibitors to participate. Anyone interested in more information can call her at 905-746-3914.
