It didn’t take long for the new picnic tables to be used at Libby Elementary School last week.

Thursday afternoon, Western Building Center’s Gene Good delivered a trio of new tables and within minutes kids and adults were enjoying them.

The new fixtures were the brainchild of LES’s Student Voice Group, led by fifth-grader Rachel Bird. Bird wrote a grant request for the new tables to add a new feature to the playground area in front of the school.

“This initiative aims to provide student who may not wish to engage with playground equipment during recess, promoting inclusivity and enhancing the overall recess experience for all students,” Bird wrote in her letter seeking support for the idea. “At Libby Elementary, we recognize that recess should be an opportunity for all students to engage in meaningful play, regardless of their physical abilities or preferences.”

Bird added that the picnic tables will provide a comfortable seating where people can play board or card games. It also provides a place for parents to watch their kids participate in youth sports contests at the school.

“It feels really good to get it done,” Bird said.

The group got a $450 grant from the LOR Foundation.

But Bird had to pivot during the process after they found out one table was going to more than $800. They had applied for a grant of $850.

“We started checking around and found that we could get the tables for a much better price at Western Building Center,” Rachel’s proud mom, Becky Bird, said. “It’s absolutely amazing and to inspire others, we’re very proud of her.”

Rachel is also active in school sports, currently playing basketball, softball and volleyball. She is active, along with Becky and dad, Robin, in their spiritual life at Libby Christian Church.

The mission of the LES Student Voice team, which was created by Libby School Counselor and Gifted and Talented Coordinator Brittany Katzer, is to work as a group to share voices and ideas of our student body for the betterment of our school. 

"I'm incredibly proud of the Student Voice representatives," Katzer said. "They are putting in consistent effort to create a positive impact in both our school and community. Their commitment is truly seen and appreciated, and I'm excited to see what we can accomplish this school year."

The 2024-25 Student Voice group celebrates their accomplishments with pizza parties and games.