NES Playground

A new pavilion that will be used as an outdoor classroom during the school day and by the greater NES community after school hours, is being built on the Northfield Elementary School playground. This is a project that the Northfield Elementary School Parent-Teacher Organization (NES PTO) has been wanting to do for several years and this is the last project of a multi-year renovation of the NES playground (see below for more information on other projects that have taken place over the years). This new pavilion is being funded by a generous donation from the Northfield Kiwanis Club and a grant from the Northfield Community Preservation Committee. 

The NES PTO is extremely lucky to have General Contractor, Steve Roberto, volunteering his time and energy to oversee the construction of this structure. The PTO is also very fortunate to have the Town of Northfield Highway Department, led by Highway Superintendent Tom Walker, excavating the site and helping with parts of this build. Tom and his dedicated crew broke ground early Monday morning, June 16, 2025. Bernard Concrete arrived later that morning to put up the forms and Graves Concrete was pouring the concrete footings by early afternoon. The foundation walls were formed and poured on Tuesday, June 17, 2025 and the concrete pad was poured on July 3, 2025. Pictures are posted below of the construction progress so far!

***VOLUNTEERS WITH BUILDING SKILLS ARE NEEDED!***

The General Contractor will oversee this project, and skilled volunteers are needed to take direction and use their expertise to actually build the structure. This is a wonderful opportunity to create a lasting impact at Northfield Elementary School by creating a space that will be enjoyed for many years to come. 

• Construction will take place on weekends starting Saturday, July 12th and continuing through mid-August (weather dependent, and no work will take place the weekend of July 19th). 

• Ideally, 4-6 volunteers will be needed at a time with work beginning at about 8:00am and ending about 4:00pm (split into two shifts; 8am-12pm & 12pm-4pm). 

  • July 12 & 13 -- Framing the structure with posts and beams. Volunteers will need some basic building knowledge and be able to take directions from the GC. Power tool knowledge is a plus, as is being able to lift the wood posts and beams. 

  • July 19 & 20 -- OFF (no building due to planned vacation)

  • July 26 & 27 -- Roof trusses installed; will be lifted into place with a crane, and volunteers will need to put into position

  • August 2 & 3 -- Install metal roof, install siding on gable ends, trim roof

  • August 9 & 10 -- Install ceiling, finish trim

• Volunteers do NOT need to commit to the entire day, or the entire weekend; any and all help is greatly appreciated.

• Volunteers need to be at least 18 years old and will need to sign a waiver.

• Tools will be needed; please specify if you have tools you can offer.

• The PTO will provide breakfast & lunch, and plenty of water.

• Childcare will be available.

• There is a 20x40 tent set-up for shade.

If you're willing to help, please complete THIS FORM. If you have any questions, please email the NES PTO, northfieldelementarypto@gmail.com OR text/call NES PTO Treasurer, Cheryl George, 413-522-0576.

Let's come together and create something truly special for our kids and the community! THANK YOU!