A Mother’s Mission to Build a Playground Every Child Deserves
Published on July 2, 2026
Settled between Norton Elementary School on South Cleveland Massillon Road and the ball fields off Longwood Drive sits a playground that has served Norton’s children for decades. The once middle school turned elementary school has watched generations of children run, climb, and laugh on that playground. However, the playground that once overflowed with childhood joy is now worn down, uneven, and filled with tripping hazards. The equipment has aged beyond repair. The surfaces are cracked and broken. Children cannot safely play, especially those with mobility challenges.
Becky Chance, a mom of four incredible children, three of whom have special needs, saw all of this. She knew exactly what it feels like when a child loses the simple, essential part of childhood that every child deserves: the chance to play. The playground that once welcomed children with open arms now pushed them away with unsafe, inaccessible spaces. When the basic joy of play is taken from a child, something far deeper is lost. Becky could not stand by and watch that happen. She chose to take on the challenge herself, the ROAR & EXPLORE Panther Inclusive Playground Project was born.
With the school district facing layoffs, closures, and levy challenges, there is no funding available for this project. The district has given its blessing, but the responsibility, the vision, the planning, the fundraising, and the determination belong entirely to her. This playground is not a district initiative. It is a mother’s mission powered by her love for her children and her belief that every child deserves a place to play.
Her goal is simple. No child deserves to sit on the sidelines.
Playground Timeline
The new playground is being designed with accessibility at the forefront. Here is an easy look at what has been completed and what is coming next.
- In partnership with the Four Cities Compact Masonry program, an ADA accessible pathway now connects the school to the playground.
- Site preparation
- Drainage improvements
- Relocation of preschool equipment from the former Primary building
- Repairs to the existing larger playground
- Poured in place rubber surfacing for the preschool area
- Replacement of wood mulch with poured in place rubber pathways
- Improved accessibility for wheelchairs, walkers, gait trainers, and other mobility devices
- New inclusive playground equipment
- Sensory play features
- Accessible swings
- Communication panels
- Additional elements that encourage shared and imaginative play
The goal is to complete Phase One before the start of the 2026-2027 school year.
How Norton Can Help
This project is powered by everyday people who care about our kids. No matter who you are or what you do, you have something meaningful to offer. Your skills, your time, your business, your voice, and your heart can all help move this playground forward.
Contact Becky Chance:
Phone: 330-715-2058
Email: roarexplorenesplayground@gmail.com
Contact Becky Chance:
Phone: 330-715-2058
Email: roarexplorenesplayground@gmail.com
Contact Becky Chance:
Phone: 330-715-2058
Email: roarexplorenesplayground@gmail.com
Contact Becky Chance:
Phone: 330-715-2058
Email: roarexplorenesplayground@gmail.com
Everyone has something to give. Everyone can make a difference. This playground will be built by the hands and hearts of the Norton community, one act of kindness at a time.
