Light of the World Academy, a K-8 Montessori charter school in Pinckney, has a new playground unlike anything you’ve ever seen before.
At the center of it is an all-natural “play mound” – a huge hill that has climbing features like rocks, logs and rope ladders, along with a slide, a tunnel and so much more.
Light of the World Academy’s playground officially opened with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Sept. 19, and based on the early returns from the students, it’s a massive hit.
And best of all, it’s not just a fun place to play – it’s actually part of the Montessori education.
“Our playground blends the joy of play with the beauty of nature, creating an environment that perfectly reflects the Montessori approach to learning,” said LOTWA Principal Lexi Salisbury.
“In Montessori education, the environment is considered the ‘third teacher,’ intentionally designed to inspire exploration, independence, and meaningful engagement. Natural play spaces like ours encourage children to follow their curiosity, test their physical abilities, and build confidence as they problem-solve and collaborate with peers.”
LOTWA’s hill is reportedly the second-highest “play mound” in the state, and it was built by Michigan Recreational Construction, the same company that built the popular playground at the Genoa Township Park.
In addition to the play mound, LOTWA’s playground also features a huge sandbox and a mud-pie kitchen.
School founder and director Kathy Moorehouse said the all-natural Montessori playground has been years in the making, and it’s been her dream since LOTWA opened as a charter school in 2015.
Moorehouse said that more playground features will be coming in the years ahead that will offer more opportunities for the children to climb, swing and play.
The school community, families and supporters have been raising money for the playground for several years, with Phase I costing $300,000. Among other things, they’ve held a fund-raising school musical, a read-a-thon and the Run for the Gold 5K to help raise funds.
“Our students and families have been the ones raising money for this, which makes it all the more special,” Moorehouse said. “We’re letting the students vote on which piece of playground equipment they want next.”
And the students are loving it.
“By blending nature and play, our playground extends the Montessori classroom outdoors, offering limitless opportunities for growth, learning, and joyful exploration,” Salisbury said.
Light of the World Academy is a charter public school authorized by Grand Valley State University.
